Dhokra Bronze Kondh Deer From Orissa - 19th Century Stools The shape of the lock

The shape of the lock is that of a trident or trisul

It's hand carved in the classic Mughal style with a trailing acanthus design

offering a tangible connection to South Indian domestic ritual and tradition

It's from the border areas of Southern Rajasthan and Northern Gujarat

Dhokra Bronze Kondh Deer From Orissa - 19th Century Stools The shape of the lockThis charming votive deer statue is from the tribal area of Kandhamal, Orissa. These tribal statues were used as votives by Khond (also spelled Kondh or Gond) tribes like the Desia Kandha tribe. These statues date to the 19th century and would have been passed down through generations and worshipped to protect against the wild animals of the forest. It is likely this deer is the sambar deer, an animal unique to Orissa and the state animal of Orissa