Prayer Cymbals (Ting-shags), 20th Century
Tibetan culture; Tibet Autonomous Region, China
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Prayer Cymbals (Ting-shags)

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-musical instruments-cymbals

Date20th Century

Made AtTibet Autonomous Region, China, Asia

MediumCopper and fiber

DimensionsFlexible - rope extended across: 15 3/8 × 3 1/4 in. (39.1 × 8.3 cm)
Flexible - rope held up: 6 1/2 × 6 1/2 × 3 1/4 in. (16.5 × 16.5 × 8.3 cm)
Cymbal: 1 × 3 1/4 × 3 1/4 in. (2.5 × 8.3 × 8.3 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2015.26.53

DescriptionThis object is a set of small prayer cymbals, or Ting-shags. These cymbals are often used as a tool of personal meditation and offering in Tibetan Buddhism, along with other instruments such as singing bowls or hand drums. Connected by a cord, the cymbals are held aloft and struck together horizontally upon their edges, producing a long, clear ringing tone. High quality cymbals are so exact in shape and size that they produce the exact same pitch. While meditating, the sound produced by the cymbals is said to summon spirits and is regarded as an offering symbolic of the five senses.

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