Mask of Protection Antique Mala

• DharmaShop founder, Sander Cohen, found this incredible antique bone beads on his trip to Nepal in October 2019.  He worked directly with our mala makers in Kathmandu to restring and finish the beads with an antiqued brass Cheppu pendant from Taiwan.
• Cheppu, known as the mask of protection, can be seen at the main entrance of many stupas and homes as a protection from all dangers.
• The one-of-a-kind mala features 108 hand carved antique bone beads with 3 dark bone spacers on brown cord.  Bone beads are often recognized as a symbol if impermanence and serve as a reminder to live in the present moment.

A note about bone beads:  In the Himalayas, it is typical for large animals such as yak or water buffalo to be used for service, food, clothing, and ritual items.  Given the limited amount of resources and the religious practices of the people in the region, it is important that none of the animal goes to waste.  These amazing bone beads are handcrafted by artisans who recycle and reuse everything in daily life and spiritual practice.

Mala measures approximately 27 inches around.  Beads are 7-8mm.  Cheppu pendant is about 0.25 inch tall and 0.5 inch wide.