Ritual horn, t’un vra (copper, horn, turquoise). Cow’s horn decorated with copper medallions of seated figures, skulls, faces and mounts with turquoise and coral pieces inset. Copper lid (separable) possibly engraved with a lotus.
T’un-rva can be used in rituals of exorcism, black magic and destruction as well as for curing the ill. Before performing any ritual, the horn is filled with magical substances – such as barley or mustard grains, or at times objects like nail clippings, written curses, the hair of an intended victim and blood can also be used. The choice of contents depends on the ritual to be performed, some rituals use “dry” fillings like seeds whilst others use “wet” fillings like blood or alcohol. Sometimes the t’un-rva is hurled towards the victim or negativity, in other instances it is hidden in the home. Many t’un-rva see later use as gunpowder containers. This example may have been made and used on the periphery of the Tibetan world, Perhaps in Nepal or Darjeeling.
