India

Indian

Metal
Length: 9.5 inches
19th century
Idiophones – Struck Idiophones – Bells

This handheld altar bell is in the shape of an Indian stupa with eleven parasols surmounted with a finial in the form of Garuda assuming a position on one knee.  Garuda is a bird creature from Hindu mythology that has a mix of wings, hawklike face, and human features.  Here he is shown with his two hands folded in adoration/prayer position (anjali mudra).  He is considered the vehicle (vahana) of Vishnu.  This 19^th century altar bell was used by priests on ritual and ceremonial occasions.  The bell was cast by the lost wax method and is well defined.