Vintage Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Wheel Brass Copper Mantra Scroll Tabletop Nepal

Beautiful vintage Tibetan Buddhist tabletop prayer wheel, purchased from a vintage shop in the Netherlands. Constructed in mixed brass and copper-tone metals, the piece features a rotating cylindrical prayer wheel decorated with raised sacred script, a substantial flared brass base, and a removable domed lid finished with a pointed finial and decorative floral-style metalwork.

Most notably, the prayer wheel retains its original tightly rolled paper prayer/mantra scroll inside, wrapped around the central spindle (I have not tried to unwrap it). Prayer wheels are traditionally used in Tibetan Buddhist devotional practice and are designed to be rotated while containing written or printed sacred mantras.

The exterior has a wonderful aged appearance with dark patination, exposed copper tones, surface wear and contrasting applied metal characters. The combination of materials and naturally aged finish gives the piece considerable character.

Details:

• Tibetan Buddhist-style tabletop prayer wheel

• Brass and copper-tone metal construction

• Rotating cylindrical wheel

• Removable decorative lid

• Original rolled paper prayer/mantra scroll remains inside

• Raised sacred script/mantra decoration

• Freestanding flared base

• Purchased from a vintage shop in the Netherlands

• Likely 20th century; exact age and maker unknown

Condition: Good vintage condition with substantial age-related patina, oxidation, finish loss, scratches and surface wear throughout. Please review all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

A fascinating piece for a collection of Tibetan Buddhist objects, Himalayan art, Asian antiques, meditation objects, altar pieces or global vintage decor.