Indian Plaque Amulet Depicting Bheru or Bhairava

Framed by a tiny arch, a stiff, spindly figure fills a pointed shield.

This plaque amulet depicting Bheru or Bhairava is Hindu, from Rajasthan, India. It is coin silver. Bhairava, also called Bheru in Rajasthan, is a fierce form of Shiva, and he is widely honored as a protector in village shrines. Flat and bright, the plaque has a small loop at the top and a beaded edge along the bottom. A thin standing figure with slim legs and outstretched arms is stamped in relief inside an arched niche. It is 0.75 inches long and 1 high.

Small enough for a pocket and full of presence.