111.142 Cymbals

Two big-bossed cymbals (bubchah) and a protection cloth (barsab).

The bubchah cymbals are used in Buddhist rituals, usually in combination with the dah, a double-headed frame drum. The straps of each cymbal are wrapped around the index fingers. The right hand moves one cymbal up and down so that clashes against the upturned rim of the other, held in the left hand. Although the bubchah cymbals are played in Tawang they are not made there, and this pair probably originated from Tibet. They were purchased from Lama Sange Khandu, in Langbutse village, near Bomdir, Tawang, in Arunachal Pradesh. He inherited them from his grandfather, Pema Norbu, who bought them from Tibetan traders.

Collection Information

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