Bird headed handle with hand painted geometric designs.An early 20th century ceramic oil vessel or dish in piscene shape, modeled as a hamsa, an aquatic bird of passage identified as a goose, swan or flamingo. Its icon is a spiritual symbol and decorative element. In Hinduism, the hamsa is associated with the Supreme Spirit or Brahma, and is also the mode of transport of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and creative arts. Russet with black accents and stylized white spirals. Issued: c. 1920 Dimensions: 7.5"L x 4"W Country of Origin: India Provenance: Collection of John J. Lanzendorf