The Silver Capala for altars and shrines is expertly handcrafted by a renowned silver smith in Nepal. With its auspicious design and intricate carvings, this set includes one bowl, one lid, and a stand. If you prefer to have both a Men and Rakta set, please order two sets. This set stands approximately 5.5" inches tall. Uses of a Small Silver or Metal Kapala Often used to hold alcohol, blood-substitute liquids, or symbolic substances like saffron water. Used during Empowerments & Initiations: Used in tantric empowerments to symbolize the transformation of ordinary perception into enlightened awareness. Sometimes holds nectar (amrita) during initiations. Meditation & Visualization: Practitioners visualize offerings in the kapala transforming into oceans of blissful nectar to please deities and dissolve ego. Shrine or Altar Piece: Even when not used in active rituals, a small metal kapala is placed on altars to invoke the presence of powerful, protective energies. Symbolism Transcendence of Samsara: The skull cup symbolizes impermanence and the transformation of base desires into wisdom. Wrathful Compassion: Used by fierce deities like Mahakala, Vajrayogini, and others who destroy ego and obstacles with compassion. Union of Opposites: Sometimes paired with a vajra or knife (kartika) to represent method and wisdom.