Northern Karnataka (South India)
brass
A monstrous animal like head depicting the demonic form of Bhairava, one of the avatars of Shiva. The moustachioed visage has a vicious face with bulging eyes and cheeks and with a huge gaping mouth with large teeth and fangs. The head has a rounded tubular extension at its base, which would fit over a pole and could be carried above the heads of the populace during festivals and processions.
Protective deities such as viras (deified heroes), kshetrapalas (guardians), bhutas (spirits of various deities), including some daivas (devils) were expected to provide protection against invaders, thieves, the elements- fire , storms, floods, drought, disease etc. Since the earth was populated by gods and their counterparts in the nether world, demons, evil spirits and ghosts, prayers, offerings and sacrifices were made to both groups to propitiate them.
Size (cms): 28(H) x 22(W) x 23.5(D)
Size (inches): 11(H) x 8.5(W) x 9.5(D)
