Indian Plaque Amulet Depicting Mahakali on a Lion

A goddess rides a lion across a silver leaf, trident raised.

This plaque amulet depicting Mahakali on a lion is Hindu, from Rajasthan, India, in coin silver. Repoussé amulets with images of the goddess have long been worn in Rajasthan for protection, and Kali in her many forms is widely revered as a fierce guardian. The plaque is a pointed oval, hammered from behind so the figure stands out in high relief. A haloed goddess sits astride a striding lion, holding a trident, while flowers spring from the ground beneath. Beaded and ribbed borders frame the scene. It is 3.5 inches wide and 4.75 high.

Small enough to carry, strong enough to be taken seriously.