Beautiful antique Indian Dhokra bronze figural oil lamp / diya, traditionally known as a Sandhya deepa, featuring the Hindu goddess Lakshmi riding a richly decorated elephant.
Hand cast using the traditional Dhokra lost-wax metal casting technique, the sculpture depicts Lakshmi seated atop the elephant while supporting a large vessel above her head. The elephant’s elongated raised trunk terminates in a substantial leaf-shaped oil lamp reservoir. Additional small lamp forms appear around the figure, creating an unusually sculptural and detailed devotional object.
This particular elephant-and-goddess lamp form is documented in collections of Indian folk art. Comparable Orissan Dhokra lamps depict Lakshmi supporting an auspicious lota while riding an elephant, with an oil bowl extending from the elephant’s trunk. Dhokra casting traditions are associated with several regions of India, including Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. The National Crafts Museum in New Delhi likewise catalogs elephant lamp stands from Odisha as brass Dhokra castings used for religious lighting.
The piece has a wonderful dark, naturally aged surface with areas of brown, bronze and subtle verdigris coloration. Its irregularities, casting texture and individually modeled details are characteristic of traditional lost-wax workmanship.
Personally sourced from an antique market in Paris, France.
Condition: Vintage condition with substantial age-related patina, oxidation, surface wear, casting irregularities and accumulated residue throughout. Please examine all photographs carefully for the exact condition. I have left the aged surface intact rather than aggressively polishing it.
Exact date and maker are unknown.
A beautiful collectible example of Indian folk art, Dhokra metalwork, Hindu devotional art and tribal lost-wax casting, equally striking displayed as sculpture or as part of a collection of global antiques and religious objects.
Free US shipping on orders over $150. Orders ship within 1 to 2 business days via USPS. US orders usually arrive in 3 to 7 business days and international orders in 7 to 21 business days. Every piece is carefully wrapped and packed.
International orders: customs duties and import taxes, if any, are charged by your country on delivery and paid by the buyer.
Returns are free for US orders. If you're not completely happy, contact us within 30 days of delivery and we'll send you a prepaid return label. International orders can be returned within 30 days too, with return shipping paid by the buyer. Items just need to come back in their original condition.
Full details: Return & Refund Policy and Shipping Policy
