8439
Enquiry about object: 8439
Indian Cast Bronze Shiva-Lingam Shrine
India 18th century or earlier
height: 5.8cm , depth: 6.7cm, width: 5.3cm, weight: 172g
Sold
Provenance
UK art market
This unusual, small shrine comprises a top yoni plate with what probably was intended to be a six-faced Shiva mukhalinga, which is now much worn and rounded from puja (prayer) use. Each of the four corners has a pile of five spheres which likely are intended to represent five-faced Shivas.
The yoni plate has a spout to emit the liquid offerings ritually poured over the miniature mukhalinga.
It sits on a high, pierced tapering foot with a pearled edge around the base.
The shrine has much wear and a wonderful, deep patina.
References
Aryan, K.C., Folk Bronzes: Of North Western India, Rekha Prakashan, 1973.
Dursum, B., et al, Change and Continuity: Folk and Tribal Art of India, Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami, 2004.
