A BASTAR BRONZE OF UNIQUE DOLI (PALAKIN)
A BASTAR BRONZE OF UNIQUE DOLI (PALAKIN)
Bronze
India, 19th-20th century
What at first glance looks like a “bed” here is actually a doli, which is a kind of “litter” also called palakin or palki. Doli are used to receive deities, who then sit in this “bed” which also often has a roof an can be hung up. In some ways the doli resembles the howdah. It stands on four legs. The front side is cut out and carries ornamental spirals and diamonds. The backside is decorated with four large spirals. The ground is divided into rectangular fields where the open part is rather latticed and more irregular.
Dimension: WIDTH 20.4 CM, LENGTH 25.2 CM, HEIGHT 18 CM
Condition: The patina is in good condition but some places at the bottom are a bit greenish. A few reparations can be seen on the floor area.
Provenance: Collection of an Indian gentleman