Indian Mukha or Face Lingam / Cover

Bright brass and a topknot that looks ready to run errands.

This brass mukha, or face lingam cover, comes from Karnataka, South India, and is dated to the 18th century. Face covers like this are commonly associated with Shiva worship. A small twisted topknot rises over a plain band across the forehead, with a teardrop mark below it. The eyes are large and round, the mustache bold, and the pointed ears sit high. The neck is short and straight, widening to a small base. The brass is golden, polished at the high points.

About 4 inches tall. Tiny, upright and sure of itself.