Indian Miniature Shrine with Ganesh, Shiva, Lingam and Yoni

A bronze household shrine, small enough to forget how serious it is.

This miniature shrine with Ganesh, Shiva, a lingam and a yoni was made in India in bronze in the 18th century. Small bronze shrines like this were commonly used in home worship, with several deities gathered under one arch. A scalloped, pointed arch rises behind a seated central figure, flanked by smaller forms on the platform. The metal is dark, with traces of golden brown on the raised edges and a dry, worn surface.

About two inches in every direction. It fits in a palm, and sits happily on a bookshelf.