Indian Mukha or Face Lingam / Cover

Moustached, crowned with spikes, and still looking out from the 18th century.

Brass founders of Karnataka, South India, made this mukha, or face lingam cover, which the record dates to the 18th century. Mukhas are commonly associated with the worship of Shiva and were placed over the lingam on special days. The face is broad with a straight nose, curled moustache and a small forehead mark. Large looped earrings flank it. A comb of upright points crowns the head, and a necklace sits at the base of a flared, belled body. The brass has worn smooth.

About 6 inches tall. A face that holds a room, even a crowded one.