Indian Oil Lamp with Lakshmi Motif

Dark and sharply detailed, this little throne keeps its ornament crisp.

This brass, copper and alloy oil lamp with a Lakshmi motif is from Karnataka, South India, and dates to the 20th century. Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess associated with wealth, fortune and prosperity, and she is commonly honored with lamps during Diwali. Shown is a pointed arch of tiny spikes frames a seated figure and curling scrollwork above a boxy bowl. A fine dotted band runs across the lower back. The finish is near black with golden highlights on the raised edges, and the base looks a touch battered. It is 3.4 inches wide, 3.75 deep and 5.5 high.

Moody, tidy and entirely unbothered by the dark.