Date: Circa late 19th century
Geography: India
Dimensions: 19.5cm H x 7cm W x 9cm D
Weight: 822g
Material: Bronze
Condition: Very good, see photos
This 19th-century Indian bronze incense burner was hand cast for use in Hindu temple worship. It features a figure of the goddess Parvati, and a cobra-shaped handle extends from the vessel, allowing it to be carried safely during ceremonies. The bronze has a rich, aged patina from years of use.
During pooja, priests and devotees would carry the burner around shrines, sacred images and worshippers while offering prayers. The rising smoke of dhoop incense was believed to purify the surroundings and carry prayers and offerings towards the divine, creating a focused atmosphere for prayer and meditation.
Parvati, one of the principal goddesses in Hinduism and the consort of Lord Shiva, represents devotion, strength, family life and the divine feminine. The cobra is closely associated with Shiva, so the handle links the piece to the divine couple and reinforces its religious purpose.
Today, this incense burner is both a beautiful example of traditional Indian bronze casting and a window into 19th-century Hindu devotional practice, a striking piece for collectors of Indian antiques and temple objects.
As with all our antique pieces, this incense burner is one of a kind, and natural variations in patina, casting texture and minor surface wear should be expected as part of its authentic character and history. Dimensions and weight are approximate.
Date: Circa late 19th century
Geography: India
Dimensions: 19.5cm H x 7cm W x 9cm D
Weight: 822g
Material: Bronze
Condition: Very good, see photos
This 19th-century Indian bronze incense burner was hand cast for use in Hindu temple worship. It features a figure of the goddess Parvati, and a cobra-shaped handle extends from the vessel, allowing it to be carried safely during ceremonies. The bronze has a rich, aged patina from years of use.
During pooja, priests and devotees would carry the burner around shrines, sacred images and worshippers while offering prayers. The rising smoke of dhoop incense was believed to purify the surroundings and carry prayers and offerings towards the divine, creating a focused atmosphere for prayer and meditation.
Parvati, one of the principal goddesses in Hinduism and the consort of Lord Shiva, represents devotion, strength, family life and the divine feminine. The cobra is closely associated with Shiva, so the handle links the piece to the divine couple and reinforces its religious purpose.
Today, this incense burner is both a beautiful example of traditional Indian bronze casting and a window into 19th-century Hindu devotional practice, a striking piece for collectors of Indian antiques and temple objects.
As with all our antique pieces, this incense burner is one of a kind, and natural variations in patina, casting texture and minor surface wear should be expected as part of its authentic character and history. Dimensions and weight are approximate.
