Temple Lamp
Description
In Maharashtra, similar lamps in stone popularly known as Deepa stambha or Deepamala is an indispensable part of every temple. They can be as high as 10 feet and have ducts to keep small oil lamps. Construction or offering of deepamalas in temples is considered to be of high religious merit.
In India, lamp symbolizes the human body and flame symbolizes the soul. Thus the individual is a Deepak (lamp) and the soul is a jeevan jyoti (the flame of life). Indians believe, that the soul is immortal. Even after the death of a person, a lamp is lit to guide the departing soul into the other world.
At every stage of life therefore, lamps are lit to celebrate the eternal life force. In earlier times special lamps were lit at coronation ceremonies, on the return of a victorious warrior and at every other important occasion. The aarti (ritualistic adoration with lighted lamps) is performed even today to strengthen and establish relationship between man and God, brother and sister, wife and husband, mother and child. Ancient texts mention Deepadaan (gifting of lamp) as a act of high merit. There are several festivals connected with lamps – Deep Amavasya (July – August), Diwali (October – November) and Ganga poojan which are celebrated with great pomp.
With the passage of time there has been innovation in the types and shapes of lamps meant for different occasions and requirement.
Collection
Indian Decorative Art
Object Type
Lamp
Material
Bronze
Schools/Culture/Period
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Technique
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Date
18th - 19th Century CE
Location
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Dimension
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