X2001.11.26a-c Lamp

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Object Name: Lamp

Artist: Unknown

Place of Origin: Rajasthan, India

Date: 20th century

Dimensions: Total Height: 13.80 cm, Total Width: 19.50 cm, Total Depth: 15.30 cm, H: 9.00 cm, W: 7.80

Materials Used: Brass

Credit Line and Accession Number: Fowler Museum at UCLA. Gift of the Pal Family. X2001.11.26a-c

Category: Uncategorized

Description

Small lamps with handles at the back are intended for use in the arati ritual, in which the lamp-grasped firmly in the right hand-is moved in a clockwise circle in front of an image of a deity. The lamp circles first the head of the deity, then the torso, and finally the feet, all the while accompanied by the ringing of a small hand bell held in the left hand. This ritual is performed millions of times daily across India in both temple and home settings.

Source: Exhibition wall text, Flames of Devotion: Oil Lamps from South and Southeast Asia and the Himalayas.