Mohra of Shiva
Description
The mohra or mask depicts Shivalinga at the bottom surmounted by Shiva’s face. The linga has three horizontal lines (Tripunda or Shaivite tilaka) with a vertical third eye on top. Above the linga is depicted Shiva’s face adorned with long earrings and a crown with a crescent. The crown is surmounted by damaru (drum) and trishula (trident). On the left side of the mohra, a snake can be seen.
In Himachal Pradesh, such mohras or sacred masks of deities are taken in processions in rathas or chariots on festivals or during village fairs. Several masks are elaborately arranged on the ratha with decorations of flowers, ornaments, decorative bells, and colourful fabrics.
Karl and Meherbai Khandalavala Collection.
Collection
Indian Decorative Art
Object Type
Metal Image
Material
Brass
Schools/Culture/Period
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Technique
Metal Casting
Date
20th Century CE
Location
Himachal Pradesh
Dimension
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