South India
Hindu 

Conch shell, metal
ca. 11-12 century C.E.
Length: 9.5 in, Width (widest): 4.5 in, Height (tallest): 3.75 in
Aerophones – Wind Instruments Proper – Lip Vibrated

The Vamavarti Shankh (sacred conch) has considerable significance in Hindu religion. When blown, it eradicates the ill effects of negative or evil energies and purifies one’s soul and surroundings. Representation of the Trimūrti, the trinity (“three forms”) of supreme divinity in Hinduism can be seen in the carving on this ancient Vamavarta shankha. The triad of sacred deities include “Brahma” – the creator, “Vishnu” – the preserver, and “Shiva” – the destroyer. 

This conch shell horn is carved with an intricate relief of a religious procession with 15 anthropomorphic figures, some of them with multiple heads and arms like deities, and 3 bipedal deer figures.  The relief wraps around the bulk of the instrument, and near the top there is a smaller carving of five figures. Across the entire instrument, the figures are holding drums, short swords, tridents, rolling out carpets, and blowing horns. The rest of the instrument is also carved in relief with wave-like patterns, swirls, and geometric trim. 

The shell is from a sea snail species Turbinella pyrum in the family Turbinellidae. This species is found living in the Indian Ocean and surrounding seas.

The mouthpiece and endpiece of the instrument are both made of a decorated shaped silver metal, and the bottom has a bright red stone embedded in the metal. There is a shaped piece of metal also decorating the hand opening.