Tibetan antique Buddhist conch shell trumpet (sankha). The shell is wrapped in silver which has an intricate repoussé design of scrolling vines and auspicious objects. It is inset with small cabochons of coral, turquoise and lapis. The conch shell itself is considered auspicious. It represents the deep, melodious sound of the Buddha's voice which wakes up disciples "from the slumber of ignorance".

Age: 19th century

Dimensions: 11 1/2" long x 6 1/2" wide