Code: M156EB5

This antique Mani bowl holds a very special place in my collection as the first Mani bowl I acquired from a collector in Jiangsu province in China. It features a fascinating historical detail—a red pigment mark on the interior—that seemingly indicates the optimal striking point for maximizing its profound acoustic vibrato.

Classification & Form

• Type: Antique Mani.

• Form Profile: It features the stout, inward-tapering walls that create the dense architectural purity characteristic of the Mani family.

Musical Signature & Acoustics

• Fundamental Pitch: Eb5 (629 Hz), delivering a clear, oscillating vibrato that beautifully focuses the mind.

• Harmonic Profile: An Ab6 harmonic briefly appears upon striking but decays rapidly, leaving the pure Eb5 fundamental completely isolated.

• Acoustic Presence: Unlike the complex, wide overtone arrays found in Jambati bowls, this instrument provides a narrow, focused spectrum that creates a mesmerizing, singular pulsating effect.

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 15.6 cm diameter.

• Weight: 906 grams.

• Architecture: The compact 15.6 cm diameter and 436g weight work in harmony to support its remarkably concentrated, vibrato-rich voice.

Patina & Surface Characteristics

• The exterior bronze exhibits a smooth, gracefully aged patina with a warm, subtle glow.

• The interior retains enigmatic red markings that have been intentionally preserved to honor the instrument's unique historical lineage.

Archival Notes

• I have noticed that striking the bowl in direct alignment with the internal red marks produces an exceptionally strong, vivid vibrato. This acoustic phenomenon strongly suggests the pigment was intentionally left by a previous practitioner to mark the exact sweet spot for optimal sound generation.