"Rkang-gling (Thighbone trumpet)"

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This instrument is made from a human thighbone which has been wrapped in metal. It is an instrument that is played by shamans in rituals connected with fierce deities and used to expel evil spirits. A sea dragon, or makara, wraps around the end of the trumpet. This is a beast of great power and tenacity, and symbolizes of the cyclic nature of water and of human existence.

Rkang gling

Instrument Data

Instrument Information

Title

Rkang-gling (Thighbone trumpet)

Alternative Title

Rkang-gling.

Accession Number

3676

Collection

MIMEd

Date Information

Date Made

1978 or earlier

Gallery Information

Gallery

Laigh Room

Case

Ritual instruments display

Maker Information

No information recorded.

Made In

No information recorded.

Description

Other Information

Specific usage history: Purchased by donor in Sikkim (?) in December 1978.

Technical Description

Body of human thigh-bone; two holes are bored through the base of the condyles, centre section completely bound with silver thread, at both ends copper and white brass fittings; attached to fittings one coral bead, another stone is missing; mouthpiece made of metal. Two rings for holding a suspended chain (missing). A third ring sitting between the two openings of the bell is made for holding a penndant (missing).

Provenance

Gift of Geoffrey Samuel, 1996.

Classification