Indian Oil Lamp with Lakshmi Motif

Dark scrollwork, a golden bowl and a base that has seen some knocks.

This brass, copper and alloy oil lamp with a Lakshmi motif is from Karnataka, South India, and dates to the early 20th century. Lakshmi is a major Hindu goddess of prosperity, and her image is often placed on lamps, doors and household shrines. From this angle, the tall back carries a seated figure, ribbed rays and a lower band of round scroll motifs. Thin arms flank a shallow bowl with a beaded rim. The base is crumpled at one corner, and the finish alternates between reddish brown and bright gold. It is 3.5 inches wide, 3.5 deep and 5 high.

Dented, devoted and still sitting up straight.