18 Century Tibet Buddhist Auspicious Symbols Brass Silver Coral Kapala Amulets

Description

These ancient Tibetan Buddhist amulets boast an old world beauty that simply does not exist in contemporary time. The amulets were crafted painstakingly, lovingly, by the hands of an artist who has since long passed. These aren't just pieces of jewelry - something to be worn for simply aesthetic purposes - these amulets are powerful vessels of luck and fortune. Made in the 18th Century in Tibet, the amulets put on stunning display some of the most fundamental aspects of Buddhist Philosophy. In material substance alone the 5 piece amulets set stands alone. The amulets are composed of a solid, heavy, naturally oxidized sterling silver, solid, heavy, and meticulously high detail etched deep gold brass, high vibrancy red coral stone inserts, and genuine kapala bone. They are, in short, "museum quality" in composition and condition, made invaluable by their beautiful, sacred depictions.
BRASS BACKED AMULETS (3)
I would like to cover the
three brass backed amulets first
. First and foremost, the quality of materials used. It is quite easy to forget - given the absolutely radiant luster of the high polish heavy brass compositions - that these amulets were made hundreds of years ago. The brass backs on these pieces are comparable to that of gold - their hue a deep, warm glowing yellow instead of the typical cool, matte aesthetic one normally sees with aged brass. While the front of the amulets are something to behold in and of themselves, the back of the amulets are quite possibly the most detailed, exquisite, and impeccably hand formed works of brass I've ever seen. The amulet backs depict in perfect form the Eight Auspicious Symbols of the Buddhist faith.
The origin of the eight auspicious symbols of Tibetan Buddhism can be traced back to ancient times, and more specifically to ancient India where Buddhism originated. While originally they were associated with the coronation of kings, the eight auspicious symbols were adapted for local Tibetan Buddhism. Some of these symbols, however, originated from Tibet, and have their own local implications. At present, the eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism represent offerings made to Buddha by the gods when he achieved enlightenment.
The symbols are called "auspicious" in that are conducive to success. They represent future success for those who have an an appreciation, as well as an understanding, of the symbols themselves. The eight auspicious symbols often serve as focal points of meditation, and contemplation for those who believe.
For those who are believers, these symbols have something to do with future success, spiritual victories, and favorable happenings in the future. See the eight auspicious symbols then as positive forces acting to help you procure a better future, as well as elements of the Buddhist faith that (if understood and meditated on) can help you grow deeper in your spirituality. Wear these amulets often - hold them - make these symbols your focus in meditation and contemplation. They were created by a believer - and destined (in Buddhist tradition) to pass on from one life to the next, from one believer to another. One day, after you've gotten from them all that you can, pass them on to someone who has much to gain..  much to learn.
At the back of the three brass amulets, the following auspicious symbols are depicted.
Back Left and Right Side: The Two Golden Fish
The Two Golden Fish can be said to symbolize impulsivity, and happiness in the Buddhist faith. It also represents complete freedom, ease of flow and movement in the water. Moreover, The Two Golden Fish perhaps most deeply represent the freedom from the chains of status, or caste. In China, this symbol represents conjugal harmony and loyalty, as fish usually swim in pairs. In Tibetan Buddhism, the sea - tumultuous and at times chaotic - is often associated with sufferings and obstacles. This "world of sufferings" is sometimes referred to a the "cycle of samsara." These Two Golden Fish, in this regard, can be said to be representative of one's courage to brave and swim across a sea of sufferings.. doing so with ease, power, and without any fear or anxiety.
Back Top: The Conch Shell
The Conch Shell symbolizes the call to act morally, as through its strong, penetrating sound the conch inspires the crowd into acting out good deeds. The powerful sound of the conch awakens the masses from their restful ignorance, leads them into new enlightenment. Since ancient times, the white conch shell has been synonymous with a call to action -
a symbol of power, sovereignty, and authority. Commoners once believed that the sound of the conch could banish evil spirits, ward off malevolent harm, and prevent natural disasters.
In Tibetan Buddhism, the conch symbolizes the unwavering fearlessness to proclaim, loud and clear, the truth. In most Tibetan monasteries, the conch is  used to gather the religious assembly together.
Back Bottom: The Eternal Knot
The Eternal Knot is representative of cause and effect. It also represents interactions. This symbol is defined by entwined lines in a closed, infinite pattern. This enclosed, infinite pattern signifies the interrelationship of all happenings in this world. As a symbol of cause and effect, it states that whatever happens, occurs because something or someone produces it. All events have interrelationships - "what goes around comes around."
In Tibetan Buddhism the Eternal Knot is symbolic of the mind of the Buddha. It showcases his eternal wisdom, as well as his endless, limitless compassion. As a symbol that represents Buddha's teachings, it shows the "twelve links and the continuity of interdependent originations". These twelve links of interdependent originations, in turn, triggers the cyclic existence' reality.
In its general sense, it depicts the real nature of the world in that everything in this world is interrelated
. Each exists only as an integral part of the web of karma, and its inevitable and definite effects.
As noted before, the work done to achieve the complexity of design desired is nothing short of unbelievable at the back of the brass amulets. Some elements of the brass are raised, while others are indented and textured - creating a beautiful element of depth and contrast. I have always been mesmerized at the finite scope of the detail in the brass... incredible, especially when you consider that these amulets were made in the 17th century, and by hand alone.
Front of the Three Brass Backed Amulets:
The front of these amulets are genuine Kapala, yet another element of these amulets that connects the past life of a human being you never knew - to that of yourself.. tying at once that which has gone by, to that which is to come. The kapala is beautifully toned, at times a saturated white. Each brass backed amulet features a different image at the front - these images are meticulously laid into the kapala through the technique of "blotting," pressing with an inked needle.
All of these kapala fronts are kept in place through an overlapping edge of brass, ensuring that the front and back of these amulets are totally inseparable. The high polish brass edging is quite the beautiful contrast when juxtaposed to the saturated white kapala it surrounds.
The three brass backed amulets have different depictions on the fronts.
The most identifiable of which is the emaciated figure, whose ribs are clearly visible. This figure is meant to represent the emaciated Buddha prior to enlightenment - during the period in which he did not eat, or drink. For those who are followers of Buddha, this is a pivotal moment in his journey - as it led to the discovery of the "middle path."
The other two brass backed pendants feature interesting designs at the front. One of these designs is yet another figure - perhaps also meant to reflect Buddha, though here the ribs are not openly displayed as they were on the other similar brass backed amulet.
The last brass backed amulet displays quite the complex front design, a "circle within a circle" composed of hundreds of inked dots pressed into the kapala. This design is a focal point for meditation - its myriad of meanings subject to the contemplation of the devout observer.
SILVER AMULETS (2)
The two silver amulets included in this listing differ from the brass amulets not only in their material composition, but also in style. Whereas on the brass backed amulets the backs were the focal point, clearly on the silver pendants the focal point of design comes at their fronts.
These silver amulets are LARGE, and very heavy. They incorporate a heavy, thick, and solid sterling silver (very ornate in design) that covers the front border, as well as their sides.
First and foremost, the sterling silver. In terms of sheer quality, this is absolutely extraordinary. In today's time, works of sterling silver are often lightweight, flimsy, and delicate. There is nothing "delicate" about the chunk of sterling incorporated into these two pendants. Additionally, I have to say that the radiancy of the sterling silver (given its age) is something to behold in and of itself. The radiancy of the silver is unparalleled when compared to other works of sterling hailing from the 17th century.
Of course, the star of the show on these amulets is the otherworldly, high detailed designs that are meticulously etched into the silver. On the large silver amulet displaying the "stacked" figures at the front, a beautiful visual display showcasing snakes and flowers. The snakes that wrap around the silver border are perhaps meant to represent Nagas - protectors of Buddha and and the Dharma. Spaced in between the Nagas are wonderfully ornate pedaled flowers.
The other large silver pendant/amulet is similar in style, but does not feature the Nagas, instead showcasing a beautiful "floral leaves" array.
Both of these large silver pendants feature THICK sides, heavy, solid silver in build. At the back, the kapala is left open and uncovered. A small silver weld is visible at the back center (this holds the stone at the front). I have always loved the look of the open kapala, to myself - the open backs look like that of an oyster or clam.. absolutely breathtaking.
As for the fronts of the large silver amulets, what immediately catches the eye are the large, high vibrancy red coral stone inserts. The red coral stones are candy red, the color deep, bright, and astoundingly unblemished. These stones were obviously chosen for their undeniably flawless complexions. These red coral inserts are nestled into solid silver holders - which overlap slightly (insuring that the inserts are more than secure, and never in danger of falling out). The silver placeholders for the stones are actually quite detailed. Look closely, and you will see the "roped silver" circle surrounding the coral... attention to detail even when it comes to the smaller elements on these exquisite ancient Tibetan pieces.
The large silver amulets display similar figures at their fronts. On one, two figures "stacked" upon one another. On the other, a figure standing alone. These figures are representative of luck and fortune relating to Eastern Philosophy. Note the amount of tiny inked compressions that make up the designs at the front... a painstaking, and time consuming process considering this was all done by hand.
Overall, these amulets are not only historical pieces, they are also (from a design standpoint) incredible works of ancient art. I find the detail, and manipulation of precious metals on these amulets - to be insurmountable even today. Lastly, I have to say - though I am not Buddhist myself, I have always believed in the positive energy behind these pieces. They have kept myself and all of those whom I care about safe - happy - and healthy through the years. There is a reason why they are still around hundreds of years later... and a reason why they have "stood up to the test of time." I debated for many months whether or not to list this set of Tibetan Buddhist amulets, but I ultimately decided that it would be a sin to hoard something as such to myself. They have served their purpose here.. they've enriched my life immeasurably... the time has come for them to move on to the next life.
Dimensions and Weight:
Brass Backed Pendant 1: 6 1/2 cm tall x 5 cm wide (34 GRAMS)
Brass Backed Pendant 2: 7 cm tall x 5.5 cm wide (48 GRAMS)
Brass Backed Pendant 3: 7.2 cm tall x 5 cm wide (43 GRAMS)
Silver Pendant Nagas (snakes): 8 cm tall x 6 cm wide (68 GRAMS)
Silver Pendant Floral: 7.5 cm tall x 5.8 cm wide (51 GRAMS)
~If you have any further questions, or would like to see any additional photos, please do not hesitate to reach out in the form of an email. I will get back to you promptly.