Indian Iron Tantric Lingam

Smooth as a river stone, and about as willing to explain itself.

This tantric lingam was made in India of iron and quartz crystal, and its age is indeterminate. The lingam, an upright rounded form, is associated with Shiva and is commonly used in worship and tantric practice as an abstract symbol rather than a portrait. Here it is a polished ovoid with no ornament at all. Pale olive-cream runs through the middle, with deep red at the crown and the base and a thin red streak across the face. The surface is glossy and fits easily in the palm.

About eight inches high. Unlabeled, unflinching and good company on a shelf.