Shawm

This is a silver clarinet (shawm) used in religious ceremonies in Tibet. The bell of the clarinet has a repoussé floral design; the shaft of the instrument is smooth. In several places over the clarinet, the wish-granting jewel can be seen in gilt with inlay. In the centre there are two phoenixes with inlay of turquoise, coral, mother-of-pearl and ruby. The clarinet has seven finger holes and one thumbhole and is telescopic for portability. It is similar to the shehnai instrument that is used in India and Nepal. 'A silver clarinet, partly gilt and enriched with enamels and precious stones' (Christie's entry)