114 - LARGE RITUAL SPOON WITH NANDI AND LINGA INDIA, 18TH CENTURY

LARGE RITUAL SPOON WITH NANDI AND LINGA INDIA, 18TH CENTURY Dimensions: Height 12 cm Wide 12 cm Depth 65 cm Weight: 2.800 grams A large cast-bronze ritual ladle with a deep circular bowl and an exceptionally long, shaped handle engraved with scrolling ornament. At the centre sits the recumbent bull Nandi facing a Shiva linga set within its yoni, making the object's Shaivite association immediately clear. The opposite end terminates in a substantial cylindrical fitting, balancing the broad bowl and elongated handle. Ladles of this type were used in Hindu ritual for the pouring of consecrated liquids such as water, milk or clarified butter. Nandi, the sacred bull and vehicle of Shiva, is traditionally shown in devoted attendance before the linga, one of the principal aniconic forms of the deity. The combination of functional vessel, sacred imagery and strong sculptural silhouette gives the piece both ceremonial purpose and considerable visual presence. The bronze shows an aged brown surface with areas of green oxidation and wear consistent with use.