Buddhist Antiques, Asian and Indian Artifacts, Offering Sticks

Shamanic, Hindu and Buddhist Ritual Sticks

Antique Wooden Offering Sticks

Such wooden offering sticks are used in Shamanic, Hindu and Buddhist ritual, especially for fire ceremonies of various types. Consecrated substances are offered to the flames to be "consumed" by the deities being invoked, or perhaps to pacify obstructive forces. Dried and fresh herbs, perfumes, oils and butter as well as water would be placed into the palm of the offering stick and then dropped into the fire by the officiant.

Both sticks or "spoons" are carved with decorative markings and the one with the rounded finial has four faces, possibly of the buddha or shiva. A well used orange rag encricles the spoon adding to the powerful ceremonial mood of the piece.