Lot 258

Tibetan Bone Bracelet - Garuda and Dorje Motifs

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Lot 258
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Tibetan Bone Bracelet - Garuda and Dorje Motifs
Tibetan Bone Bracelet - Garuda and Dorje Motifs
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Tibetan Bone Bracelet - Garuda and Dorje Motifs

Estimate: $450 - $675

Starting Bid: $175

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
July 14, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 20th century CE. A finely carved bracelet fashioned from bone ornaments, repurposed from a Tibetan rus rgyan (bone ornament), an element traditionally associated with Tantric Buddhist ritual dress. Known in Western literature as a "tantric apron," the rus rgyan was worn by religious adepts and dancers during esoteric ceremonies. Considered both protective and symbolic, these bone adornments were believed to function as a type of spiritual armor, enabling the triumph of Tantric Buddhism over pre-Buddhist shamanic forces and the deities allied with them. The bracelet features a central carved plaque depicting Garuda, the mythical bird-man and fierce protector deity, rendered in high relief with outspread wings and vigorous movement. Garuda is flanked on either side by vegetal finials resembling stylized dorjes (vajras), symbols of indestructibility and spiritual power. Size of pendant: 4.2" L x 1.3" W (10.7 cm x 3.3 cm); of bracelet: 14.5" L (36.8 cm)

The composition is further enhanced with rows of spherical bone beads strung together with cord, completing the ornament's wearable form. The reverse reveals the natural bone surface and stringing holes, underscoring its repurposed ritual function. This piece embodies the intersection of personal adornment, ritual practice, and religious symbolism, transforming sacred Tantric imagery into an intimate object that retains its apotropaic associations.

Provenance: private Anahola, Hawaii, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 1990s

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Item # 197929

  • Condition: Originally from a larger apron. Som minor nicks and rubbing, but, otherwise, very nice with rich patina. Wearable as a bracelet.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000