Brass Khandoba On Horse From Deccan - 18th Century

This finely cast 18th-century brass figure depicts Khandoba, the warrior manifestation of the Hindu god Shiva, seated on horseback beneath an elaborate ornamental arch. Originating from the Deccan region of India, the sculpture is a wonderful example of traditional devotional metalwork, combining religious symbolism with the distinctive craftsmanship of the region.

Khandoba is one of the most revered regional forms of Shiva, particularly worshipped in Maharashtra, Karnataka and the wider Deccan, where he is also known as Mallanna or Malhari Martand. Traditionally portrayed as a warrior deity riding a horse and carrying weapons, Khandoba is regarded as a protector of communities, households and livestock.

The figure is beautifully detailed, with Khandoba seated astride his horse, holding weapons and wearing a distinctive headdress. Behind him rises an elaborate prabhavali, or ceremonial arch, decorated with scrolling foliate motifs and crowned by a stylised protective face. The sculpture has a rich golden brass surface, with reddish tones and darker patination that accentuate the intricate casting. In places the metal has been worn smooth by generations of devotional touching.

• Origin: Deccan, India
• Date: 18th century
• Materials: Cast brass
• Features: Khandoba seated on horseback beneath an elaborate foliate prabhavali; three detachable components comprising the deity, horse and arch
• Condition: Good antique condition with surface wear, rubbing and natural patination consistent with age
• Dimensions: W6 × D8 × H20 cm
• Weight: 0.85 kg

References:

For a comparable example, see Change & Continuity: Folk & Tribal Art of India by Brian A. Dursam, fig. 79.

A comparable example is also held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.