Indian Oil Lamp with Lakshmi Motif

Behold a mellow golden basin has a high shell-like crest and a small figure at its heart.

This brass oil lamp with Lakshmi motif is from Karnataka, South India, and dates to the 20th century. Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess associated with prosperity and good fortune, and she is often shown seated on a lotus or flanked by elephants. On view, a circular basin with simple arms and a pointed front lip sits beneath a tall arch of fine radiating lines. A seated figure with scrolling flourishes sits at the center, and a small hole is visible on the side of the base. It is 3.5 inches wide, 4 deep and 5.25 high.

Soft-toned, slightly dented and wearing its crest well.