Antique Jambati Singing Bowl. Note: C#4 (Root Chakra)

Weight 2.69 kilos (5 lb 15 oz).  Size 28.5 x 12 cm (11 ¼ x 4 ¾ inches)

I was thrilled to find this rare and exceptionally beautiful antique Jambati Singing Bowl dating from the 18th century.  It has a particularly graceful form and an unusually rounded bottom.  It has one of the widest triangulated and grooved lips I have ever encountered, and the boldly incised decorative bands encircling the rim are a real feature.

This is a heavy bowl for its size and has attractive and superbly crafted walls.  It has a fabulous wide grooved lip and rim, and there are decorative circles at its centre.  This is a very old bowl but it is in good condition for its age; structurally sound and clean. There is some slight pitting inside and a patch of reddish copper showing through underneath.  It has a fabulous antique bronze colour and patina, and the look and feel of great antiquity.

The fundamental note is an excellent middle octave C#4 (278Hz) that is close to perfect pitch when stuck with a padded mallet.  The note is the same but brighter when struck with a hard mallet.  I found the rim note a challenge and slow to build, so the buyer will need to experiment until they find the right ringer and playing technique.  I have therefore reduced the price accordingly.  However, some antique bowls serve a ceremonial purpose and are made to be struck, and this is probably one.  But don’t be put off…this is a fabulous and rare antique specimen with a nice voice!

A Tibetan silk brocade bowl cushion, padded striker and ringer are all included in the price.

Listen: ( 3 struck notes with a padded mallet and 3 with a hard mallet).