Indian Oil Lamp with Lakshmi Motif

A tiny throne with a flaming halo, built for a flame that never sits still.

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. Here, a tall arched back rises behind a round bowl, crowded with scrolling ornament and a seated figure at the center. Spiky rays fringe the arch. The surface is a warm reddish brown with darker recesses and a slightly dented rim. It is 3.5 inches wide, 4 deep and 5 high.

Small seat, big ambitions, and a well-trimmed halo.