MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS AND MULTIPLE HISTORIES OF TIBETAN TSHA-TSHAS (VOTIVE CLAY IMAGES)

Abstract

Tibetan TSHA-TSHAS are small objects made by stamping wet clay or pressing it into wooden or metal forms or molds. The objects are then sun-dried or fired at low temperatures. Images depicted on TSHA-TSHAS may include deities, religious teachers or shrines; there may also be inscriptions, sacred syllables or longer mantras. Decorative paint is often applied to the surfaces of TSHA-TSHAS. When encountered by conservators, these objects are often damaged and crumbling. Their condition may result from the clay recipe used and whether or not the object was fired, which both depend in part on the intended function, and from the history of use. TSHA-TSHAS can serve a variety of purposes, both religious and social; a particular tsha-tsha may have multiple functions, but not all TSHA-TSHAS serve the same set of functions. This paper discusses symbolism, fabrication, context of use and conservation implications of these objects, by combining information from Tibetan texts on TSHA-TSHAS, art historical studies, materials analysis, use context and ethnographic work that examines modern Tibetan practices surrounding tsha-tsha fabrication and use.