Vintage Brass Tribal Deity Bell or Dhokra Art Bust of a Deity

Vintage Brass Tribal Deity Bell or Dhokra Art Bust of a Deity

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Key Features
  • Material: Crafted from a metal alloy (most likely brass or bronze) using the traditional lost-wax casting (cire perdue) method, which is characteristic of Dhokra art.
  • Design: A stylized bust of a horned tribal deity or figure. The face is expressive and detailed, and the entire surface is covered in intricate, coiled-wire patterns. The shape is bell-like and hollow.
  • Functionality: The piece’s shape suggests it is a bell, possibly for ceremonial use. It can also be a purely decorative item.
  • 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 figure with horns may represent a specific deity or a local tribal god, making it a significant piece of religious and folk art. The bell shape is a common feature in ritualistic objects in many cultures.
  • 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 unique, handcrafted figurine of a deity or a tribal figure, likely made from brass or a similar metal alloy, using the traditional lost-wax casting technique, known as Dhokra art. The piece is a bust of a figure with a stylized face, a prominent mustache, and large ears. It wears an elaborate headdress and has horns, possibly representing a deity like Shiva or a local tribal god.

The body of the figurine is hollow and bell-shaped, and the entire surface is covered with a unique, textured pattern created by coiled metal wires. The hollow structure and the open base suggest that this is a tribal bell. It could be used for ceremonial purposes or simply as a decorative object. The piece has a raw, unpolished finish with a deep, aged patina, which is characteristic of this art form.