Indian Mukha or Face Lingam / Cover

Domed cap, handlebar mustache, and a calm stare.

Karnataka, South India, is the source of this brass mukha, or face lingam cover, dated to the 18th century. Mukhas were commonly fitted over a Shiva lingam for worship, turning the abstract form into a face. A rounded, helmet-like crown ends in a small finial, and a diamond mark sits at the front. The eyes are narrow and the mustache sweeps out from a pointed nose. Flat, wing-like ears have small pierced holes. The metal is pale brass with soft wear.

About 5 inches tall. Leave it on a desk and it looks back.