BRASS MONK’S CUP — Alms Vessel (1920s)

$70.00

Over a century old, this antique brass alms cup carries the quiet dignity of a monk’s daily devotion. Once held by a Buddhist monk during morning alms rounds, it was more than a vessel — it was a sacred companion, receiving offerings of food with gratitude and presence.

The brass has developed a deep natural patina through generations of use, each mark and worn edge a trace of its long journey. Both visually striking and spiritually resonant, the cup embodies humility, endurance, and the timeless rhythm of ritual life.

Details

  • Origin: Southeast Asia (likely Northern Thailand / Laos region)

  • Age: 100+ years old

  • Material: Solid brass

  • Condition: Antique, with patina and surface wear consistent with ritual use

  • Features: Traditional monk’s form, heavy brass construction, warm patina from decades of devotion

Spiritual Significance

  • Alms Ritual: Central to the monk’s daily practice — symbolizing humility, detachment, and reliance on the generosity of others.

  • Brass as Vessel: Chosen for durability and resonance, brass deepens in sacred character as it ages.

  • Living Artifact: Holds the memory of countless offerings and prayers, carrying the rhythm of stillness across generations.

Not merely a cup, but a vessel of devotion — this piece embodies over a hundred years of presence, practice, and spiritual endurance.

Note on Sacred Objects
Our pieces often originate in Buddhist traditions, yet their essence is universal. You do not need to be Buddhist — nor hold any specific beliefs — to welcome them into your life. These objects are not bound to religious worship; they are reminders of awareness, compassion, and our shared connection as human beings. Whether worn, carried, or placed in your space, they serve as anchors for mindfulness and presence — a quiet reminder of the truth that we are all connected.

Over a century old, this antique brass alms cup carries the quiet dignity of a monk’s daily devotion. Once held by a Buddhist monk during morning alms rounds, it was more than a vessel — it was a sacred companion, receiving offerings of food with gratitude and presence.

The brass has developed a deep natural patina through generations of use, each mark and worn edge a trace of its long journey. Both visually striking and spiritually resonant, the cup embodies humility, endurance, and the timeless rhythm of ritual life.

Details

  • Origin: Southeast Asia (likely Northern Thailand / Laos region)

  • Age: 100+ years old

  • Material: Solid brass

  • Condition: Antique, with patina and surface wear consistent with ritual use

  • Features: Traditional monk’s form, heavy brass construction, warm patina from decades of devotion

Spiritual Significance

  • Alms Ritual: Central to the monk’s daily practice — symbolizing humility, detachment, and reliance on the generosity of others.

  • Brass as Vessel: Chosen for durability and resonance, brass deepens in sacred character as it ages.

  • Living Artifact: Holds the memory of countless offerings and prayers, carrying the rhythm of stillness across generations.

Not merely a cup, but a vessel of devotion — this piece embodies over a hundred years of presence, practice, and spiritual endurance.

Note on Sacred Objects
Our pieces often originate in Buddhist traditions, yet their essence is universal. You do not need to be Buddhist — nor hold any specific beliefs — to welcome them into your life. These objects are not bound to religious worship; they are reminders of awareness, compassion, and our shared connection as human beings. Whether worn, carried, or placed in your space, they serve as anchors for mindfulness and presence — a quiet reminder of the truth that we are all connected.