Handheld Prayer Wheel, early 20th century (central Tibet), silver, wood, semi-precious stones, 19.6 x 5 x 4.5 inches (Rubin Museum of Art, New York)

speakers: Dr. Elena Pakhoutova, Senior Curator Himalayan Art at the Rubin Museum of Art and Dr. Steven Zucker

Rubin Museum senior curator Dr. Elena Pakhoutova and Smarthistory’s Dr. Steven Zucker take a look at an ornate handheld prayer wheel, which are ritual objects that are ubiquitous in Tibetan Buddhist culture. The action of turning a prayer wheel with conscious intent is believed to “recite” or “read” the mantras, activating and releasing them into the world for the benefit of all.

The Rubin Museum of Art has teamed up with Smarthistory to bring you an ‘up-close’ look at select objects from the Rubin’s preeminent collection of Himalayan art. Featuring conversations with senior curators and close-looking at art, this video series is an accessible introduction to the art and material culture of the Tibetan, Himalayan, and Inner Asian regions. Learn about the living traditions and art-making practices of the Himalayas from the past to today.

Learn more about prayer wheels on Project Himalayan Art, a resource from the Rubin for learning about Himalayan, Tibetan, and Inner Asian art and cultures:
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/essays/prayer-wheel/
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/exhibition/living-practices/merit/
https://projecthimalayanart.rubinmuseum.org/exhibition/living-practices/merit/handheld-prayer-wheel/

About the Rubin
The Rubin is a global museum dedicated to sharing Himalayan art through a dynamic digital platform, participatory experiences, exhibitions, and partnerships. Inspired and informed by Himalayan art, the Rubin invites people to contemplate the human experience and deepen connections with the world around them in order to expand awareness, enhance well-being, and cultivate compassion.

View the Himalayan Art Up Close series: www.youtube.com/playlist

Subscribe to the Rubin Museum YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@rubinmuseum
Images: Handheld Prayer Wheel; Central Tibet; early 20th century; silver, wood; Rubin Museum of Art; gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; SC2012.7.2