Buddhist or Hindu "Mala" rosary

Buddhist or Hindu "Mala" rosary

Tibet, 19th century or earlier

Necklace featuring 109 skull-shaped beads in bone, strung on pink silk threads. L. 78 cm Buddhist prayer bead garlands generally consist of 108 beads. This number has multiple symbolism in Buddhist philosophy, which lists 108 human sufferings, but also 108 sacred texts, 108 sacred points on the human body, 108 energy lines converging on the heart, 108 names of Shiva, 108 sins and 108 virtues, 108 yoga positions, etc. The 109th pearl, hanging from the bottom of the necklace, is called "sumeru", "bindu", "stupa" or "guru's pearl". It is never counted among the repetitions, but serves as a marker for the beginning and end of a meditation cycle. Provenance : Private collection of Mme H., Paris, assembled before 1990. A "Mala", Buddhist or Hindu rosary, Tibet,19th century