Indian Vibhuti Box From Karnataka - 19thC Shelf it shows a timeworn surface

it shows a timeworn surface with traces of its original burgundy lacquer

Hand-cast using the ancient lost-wax technique

64 x 31  x 34  (wxdxh cms)

Beeswax is mixed with a little oil and kneaded well to soften it

Indian Vibhuti Box From Karnataka - 19thC Shelf it shows a timeworn surfaceThis intricately carved antique Indian box was used to store vibhuti. Vibhuti is also referred to as bhasma and is sacred ash used for tikka symbolising the mystic power of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Tikka is applied to the forehead and the ashes serve as a reminder that all existence eventually ends with ash. This box is made from jackfruit and comes from South India, likely Karnataka. The pegs on top are symbolic representations of Shiva Lingam. From