Indian Pilgrimage Folk Shiva with Nandi

A small shrine in a pointed arch, with Nandi looking after things at the base.

This pilgrimage folk bronze of Shiva with Nandi was made in India and dates, in the record, to the 18th century or earlier. Small bronzes like this are commonly associated with household worship and as souvenirs of pilgrimage, and the bull Nandi is Shiva’s traditional mount. Shiva stands within an open arched frame topped with a finial, on a stepped rectangular base, with the bull at his feet. The bronze is worn and brassy, with a dull, dark surface.

About 3 inches tall. A shrine that fits the palm of a hand, or a shelf with no spare room.