Tibet (Autonomous Region of China) 
Tibetan

Copper, silver, horn
ca. 19th century
Length 14.5 in; Diameter of Bell: 6 in 
Aerophones -Wind Instruments Proper – Lip Vibrated

A 19^th century Tibetan dragon or ‘Makara’ Dbang Dung trumpet.  Above the copper embellished flared bell is featured the head of a chu-srin (makara) bearing sharp fangs. This mythical makara head is made of silver.  At the top of the instrument is the mouthpiece with a circular plate covered with silver which extends down a tube featuring engraved designs that connects to a curved animal horn.  This curved horn extends to the mythical makara head in silver. 

The Makara is often depicted with the frontal part as an elephant or other terrestrial animals but here it is portrayed with bulging eyes, two antlers and a curling mane.  This Makara ( a mythical “sea dragon” or “water monster” in Sanskrit) is the pet and Vahana (vehicle) of the river goddess Ganga of Hindu mythology, who personifies the purity and piety of the Ganges River (the most sacred river of Hindu mythology) and purportedly descends to earth to rinse away humankind’s sins.  The Makara trumpet is played in processions and in private rituals to accompany dancing and chanting.