Horn dispensers like these were used during Shamanic fire rituals. They used to be filled with mustard seeds which would be thrown into the fire to release a smoke which would purify the air from ghosts. They are often decorated with auspicious symbols of Tibetan Buddhism. An interesting feature which rose my attention was the ‘Makara‘ shaped nozzle which represents the seeds coming out of its mouth. The ‘Makara‘ is an ancient Hindu sea creature that functioned as vessel for ‘Ganga’ and ‘Varuda’ . See a more elaborated version here.

This example:
Featuring many auspicious Buddhist symbols such as a ‘Varja‘, a double headed scepter which is often held by Buddhist deities. A votive ‘Stupa‘ and a turtle, which represents an auspicious Zodiac sign. All motifs are surrounded by flowers and a variety on the ‘endless knot‘. The lid of the container is decorated with a carved ‘Varja‘ scepter and has a small metal ring which holds the leather cord. The snout of the ‘Makara‘ has a stopper which prevents the seeds from spoiling.

Condition: Excellent shape, low remains of polychrome, further excellent.

Dimensions: 20 x 6 cm

Provenance: A Dutch private collection