Karnataka (South India)
brass alloy
A diminutive brass boar representing Panjurli, the boar spirit associated with the Bhuta tradition on the Malabar coast. The stylised animal of unusual proportions is shown standing on a rectangular base, with a large snout, protruding tongue, and short tusks. In Tulu Nadu, hordes of boars often invaded and destroyed cultivated lands. Hence, the farmers began worshipping and offering to Panjurli, the boar spirit, hoping this would appease his mood and keep the wild animals away from their fields.
The bhuta and daiva, local divine or deified beings, are highly prevalent in the southern parts of the Kannara district. Though now largely confined to South Kannara, bhuta cults once existed across India under different names and forms, including in certain areas of North Kannara and even Sri Lanka. These cults, which are of considerable antiquity, have much in common with those of the yakshas, for instance. Like bhutas, yakshas are a ‘queer blend of what is sublime and mundane, profound and profane.
Size (cms): 6(H) x 9.5(W) x 3.5(D)
Size (inches): 2.5(H) x 3.5(W) x 1.5(D)
