Vintage Brass Triple-Mouthed Container or Dhokra Art Ceremonial Lamp/Incense Holder
Vintage Brass Triple-Mouthed Container or Dhokra Art Ceremonial Lamp/Incense Holder
Key Features
- Material: Crafted from a metal alloy (most likely brass or bronze) using the traditional Dhokra art technique.
- Design: A highly stylized, three-pronged container with a face-like opening and two horn-like openings. The entire surface is covered in a unique, ribbed, and textured pattern created by coiled wires.
- Functionality: The primary function is likely ceremonial, as an oil lamp or incense holder. Its unique shape makes it a one-of-a-kind decorative piece.
- Aesthetics: The piece has a tribal, rustic, and handcrafted aesthetic. The imperfections are a testament to the handmade process, adding to its vintage and authentic charm.
- Cultural Significance: The abstract, almost surreal design may represent a specific tribal deity, mask, or ritualistic object, making it a significant piece of cultural art.
- Use: This figurine can be a decorative accent for a bookshelf, desk, or display cabinet. It is a wonderful gift for collectors of folk art or those who appreciate unique, handcrafted items.
This is a very unusual and highly stylized figurine or container, likely crafted from brass or a similar metal alloy, using the traditional lost-wax casting technique, known as Dhokra art. The piece has a triangular base and features three mouths or openings, one in the front and two on the sides. The front opening is stylized as a face with a large, open mouth, while the other two openings resemble horns or extensions. The entire surface is covered with intricate, coiled wire patterns and textures.
Given its structure, it is likely a ceremonial object with a specific function:
- Triple-mouthed oil lamp (diya): The three openings could be for holding wicks, making it a functional oil lamp.
- Incense Holder: It could also be an incense holder, where an incense cone or powder is placed inside, and the smoke exits through the mouths.
- Decorative Container: It might simply be a unique decorative container for holding small items.
The piece has a rustic, unpolished finish with a deep, aged patina, giving it an authentic, vintage feel.







