The kapala or thod-pa is a highly decoratedcup or bowl made from a human skull for use in Tibetan Buddhism, and represents the symbolic destruction of evil entities. The cup is used to hold offerings of bread or wine, symbolizing blood and flesh, to "wrathful" deities. The kapala may be a carryover from ancient practices of human sacrifice.
When creating a kapala, a skull is specially collected, prepared, and elaborately annointed and consecrated before use. Many are decorated with carvings, jewels, or silverwork.
The kapala is one of several "charnel ground" implements made from human bone.
When creating a kapala, a skull is specially collected, prepared, and elaborately annointed and consecrated before use. Many are decorated with carvings, jewels, or silverwork.
The kapala is one of several "charnel ground" implements made from human bone.
