Both objects in good-quality silver.
1: A shell trumpet for lamaistic rituals. Manufactured from a small, white sea shell. The silver mount is decorated with chased and engraved, floral and geometrical bands, leafy tendrils and symbols, as well as with 3 round, set agate stones (carnelians) with buff top. L: 14 cm.
2: A round container for snuff tobacco or ‘medicine’. The flat body is made of red-brown wood and is richly decorated with silver. On the front side is a round medallion, with leafy tendrils and blossoms. A round opening at its centre for refilling the box, with a red agate pearl. Around the medallion 2 applied birds of prey and hares of chased silver.
The outer edge of the container displays a detailed and knop-like silver band all around, with a conical spout made of silver with a decoration of blossoms and leaves. The closure of this spout consists of a ring finial with a long copper stick. The back is entirely covered with an engraved, round silver platter. With engraved volutes of leafy tendrils and a central face of protecting ‘kirtimukha’ warding off demons. H: 32.5 cm (with spout), DM: 10 cm, 6 cm ‘thick’. Both objects display good, old usage patina. Late 19th, early 20th century. (ME)