Indian Yoni-Form Ritual Vessel

One long curve, gathered to a single point.

This yoni-form ritual vessel is copper, from India, 20th century. In Hindu worship the yoni is an emblem of the goddess and of creative power, often paired with the linga of Shiva, and vessels of this shape are associated with the pouring and channeling of water during devotion. The body narrows from a rounded end to a tapering spout. Stepped ridges follow the rim all the way along, and the brown copper shows a finely hammered surface. It runs 30 inches from end to end.

The form needs no ornament, and has been given almost none.