Brass Dhokra Work Oil Lamp From Chhattisgarh- 19th Century

This brass oil lamp from the Bastar tribal region of Chhattisgarh, India was created using the ancient lost-wax casting tradition for which the Dokra Damar metalworking communities are renowned. 

The lamp is raised on a finely cast stambha pedestal featuring a stylised peacock. Perched upon the rim of the oil reservoir is a another peacock, a motif associated with beauty, prosperity and divine protection in Indian art. The reservoir itself is formed as a traditional yoni shape, an ancient symbol of feminine creative energy and fertility frequently incorporated into ritual objects throughout the Indian subcontinent. Small lingams can be see either side of the yoni opening - phallic symbols of Lord Shiva.

Crafted using the traditional Dokra lost-wax casting process, each lamp was individually modelled in wax before being encased in clay and cast in molten brass. As the mould is destroyed during casting, every example is unique. The resulting surface retains the subtle irregularities and rich texture that are hallmarks of authentic tribal metalwork.

Comparable examples are illustrated in Flames of Devotion: Oil Lamps From South & South East Asia & The Himalayas by Sean Anderson, highlighting the cultural and artistic significance of these ritual lamps within the broader tradition of South Asian devotional objects.

• Origin: Bastar Region, Chhattisgarh, India
• Date: Late 19th Century
• Materials: Cast Brass
• Technique: Traditional Dokra Lost-Wax Casting
• Features: Peacock finial, yoni-shaped oil reservoir, stambha pedestal, geometric tribal ornamentation, suspended bell detail, ritual oil lamp form
• Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, surface patina and minor casting irregularities consistent with traditional hand production and age
• Reference: Similar examples illustrated on pages 81 & 91 of Flames of Devotion: Oil Lamps From South & South East Asia & The Himalayas by Sean Anderson
• Dimensions: W9 x D13 x H13 cm