Thokcha
Tibet
Bronze alloy
1.75 inches (4.5 cm) high; 6 inches (15.2 cm) high as based
Late 19th century

A very small thokcha, aka sky metal, which were small scraps of horse trappings, findings and small amulets like this one, were believed to have fallen from the sky. They were worn as protective talismans and passed down from one generation to the next.

This small figure has one hand on his knee while the other holds a staff or other object. Remnants of facial features can be seen, along with a design on his chest that radiates from a central circle. These baby figures are thought to have originated in China, but are considered thokcha in Tibet.
#3760

$500