Fine, Tibetan Mandala Printing Block

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This wooden printing block has been carved elaborately with the Om Mane Padme Hum mantra in circular mandala form.  The field beyond the circle is carved with flame-like scrolls which seems to suggest a fiery realm but with a Buddhistic symbol in each corner.

Such woodblocks were used to make prints usually on light cotton fabric or thin hand-made paper which was then folded into a tight bundle and then wrapped with coloured string. The bundle then served as a protective amulet that was worn and which protected the wearer against sickness and other difficulties. Some might have been stored and worn inside a ga’u box as well.

See Brauen (2009, p. 32) for a similar example in the Rubin Museum.

The example here is in fine, obviously old condition and has a marvellous dark patina.