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Sankh

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Sankh

Date:
19th century
Geography:
Kerala State, India
Medium:
Shell (Turbinella pyrum), brass, wax
Dimensions:
L. of shell 42.5 cm (16 3/4 in.); L. of stand 14.5 cm (5 3/4 in.); H. of shell 14.7 cm (5 3/4 in.); H. of stand 6 cm (2 3/8 in.); Total H. 22.5 cm (8 7/8 in.)
Classification:
Aerophone-Lip Vibrated
Credit Line:
Purchase, The Barrington Foundation Inc. Gift, 1986
Accession Number:
1986.12

This artwork is currently on display in Gallery 681

  • Description

    In Hinduism the conch shell is usually associated with the god Vishnu, Lord of the Waters, but the brass fittings on this shell indicate a link with Shaivite ritual. The mouthpiece suggests a lotus, while the heavily decorated conical end depicts rows of nagas (serpent divinities) and wreath-bearing kirtimukhas ("Faces of Glory"). A yoni design (symbol of female energy) is interspersed between each naga and kirtimukha. The fitting terminates with the head of a makara (elephant/crocodile monster), atop which strides a yali (elephant/lion monster). Three figures rest at the upper edge of the shell's opening: the lingam/yoni, symbol of Shiva and representation of the unified male/female force; Ganesh, the elephant-headed son of Shiva; and Nandi, a milk-white bull who serves as Shiva's vehicle. The opening of the hoofed stand represents a yoni.

  • References

    Written by Masselos Jim, Written by Ms. Jackie Menzies, Written by Pratapaditya Pal. Dancing To The Flute: Music and Dance in Indian Art. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. Sydney, Australia, 1997, pg. 176-177, fig. 110, ill.

    Libin Laurence, J. Kenneth Moore. "Recent Acquisitions 1985-1986: A Selection: Musical Instruments." The Metropolitan Museum of Art Bulletin (1986), pg. 45, ill.



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