Contextual Associations

The rkang-gling is an end-blown lip-reed aerophone used in Tibetan Buddhist ritual. It is traditionally made from the femur of a human who has died a violent death. The second rkang-gling pictured on this page is made from the leg bone of a tiger. Usually used in pairs (audio #1) for Tibetan Buddhist rituals connected to fierce deities, rkang-gling punctuate chanted texts and herald the entry of dancers as part of the ritual. They are also used in combination with the thod-rnga drum as a ritual implement by monks while chanting and meditating upon Tantric Buddhist religious texts. The first detail image shows a close up of the mask-like image, possibly that of a demonic figure, that is etched into the decorative metal over-plate at the bell-end of the second rkang-gling. A red stone adorns the bell-end of the first one, and there is evidence that some sort of paint had once been applied to the plating at this end.

Description

The bone is dried and the residue of its marrow is removed from one end to produce a channel that terminates in the bulbous protuberance (condyle) at its other end. A hole that intersects the bore is drilled through the sides of the condyle. The metal overlay at one end serves as the instrument's mouthpiece (see second detail image), while the other end of the bone is likewise covered with metal, except for the side holes that serve as the instrument’s bell.

Player - Instrument Interface and Sound Production

The player holds the rkang-gling in one hand and places its mouthpiece opening against his tensed lips through which he directs an airstream, producing a single, high, piercing tone. Its playing in a ritual setting is timed with other participating instruments and chanting.

Origins/History/Evolution

Although almost certainly an ancient instrument, no information was found on the history of the rkang-gling.
 

Bibliographic Citations

Helffer, Mireille. 1984. “Rkang-gling.” NGDMI v.3: 252.