Indian Bird-Form Jeweler's Torch

Smooth as a river stone, with an ornamental tail feather.

Artisans in Karnataka, South India, forged this bird-form jeweler’s torch in iron in the early 20th century. Torches of this kind are often tied to the goldsmith’s workshop. A thick-billed head bends forward on a short neck. The rear handle ends in a flat, leaf-shaped plate with incised lines. The heavy body is nearly black and smooth, with a faint hammered texture. The plate handle is the one flourish on an otherwise severe, weighty form.

About 7 inches tall. A dignified paperweight, with opinions.