Kapala – The Skull Cup
Auspicious Symbols Carved Kapala: The skull cup, known as Kapala in Sanskrit, is fashioned from the oval upper section of a human cranium. It serves as a libation vessel for a vast number of Vajrayana deities, mostly wrathful. As a ritual implement, the selection of the right skull is of immense importance for the success of the ritual. The skull of a murder or execution victim is believed to possess the greatest tantric power; the skull of one who has died from a violent or accidental death, or from a virulent illness, possesses a medium magical power; the skull of a person who died peacefully in old age has virtually no occult power. The skull of a child who died during the onset of puberty also has great potency, as do the skulls of miscegenated or misbegotten child of unknown paternity, born from the forbidden union of castes, out of wedlock, from sexual misdemeanor, or particularly from incest. The ‘misbegotten skull’ of a seven or eight-year-old child born from an incestuous union is considered to possess the greatest power in certain tantric rituals. Here the vital force or potential of the skull’s ‘previous owner’ is embodied within the bone as a spirit, rendering it an effective power object for the performance of tantric rituals.
About this Eight Auspicious Symbols Carved Resin Kapala
This Kapala is a stunning testament to exquisite craftsmanship, meticulously hand-carved with the figure of Viswa Vajra at its center and adorned with the auspicious Eight Auspicious Symbols crafted from white metal. Crafted from resin and silver-plated copper, the intricate design features Viswa Vajra encircled by these symbols, accentuated by small metal skulls and embellished with Turquoise and Coral Stones, adding to its captivating allure.
The fine hand-carving work on both the Eight Auspicious Symbols and Viswa Vajra showcases the masterful skill of artisans from Patan, Nepal. Each detail is meticulously executed, reflecting a dedication to quality and tradition. This high-quality Kapala not only serves as a beautiful piece of art but also carries spiritual significance, making it a cherished addition to any collection.
