Kangling

(Thighbone Trumpets)

Above: Early 20th century Tibetan yogins (Chöpa) with Chöd drums and thighbone trumpets.

Kangling is literally translated as "leg" (kang) "flute" (ling). It is the Tibetan name for a ritual trumpet made out of a human femur (thighbone). It is commonly used in Tibetan Buddhism for the practice of Chöd rituals and funerary practices. They can be very simple to highly ornate in appearance. Sometimes they are ornamented with metal such as copper or silver and they can be mounted with gemstones such as coral and turquoise. It is also possible to use Kanglings crafted from wood and in more recent times they are being made from resin to overcome any travel restrictions.

We are always interested in purchasing old/antique bone kanglings. Please feel free to contact us (with photos) if you have a kangling you would like to sell.