Lot 54

15th C. Indian Bronze Lingam With Naga

Previous image preload Next image preload

15th C. Indian Bronze Lingam With Naga

Estimate: $1,800 - $2,500

Starting Bid: $1,200

(0 Bids)

October 2, 2025 8:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US


Description:

South Asia, India, ca. 15th century CE. A finely cast leaded bronze lingam, the sacred emblem of Shiva, rising from a square base and crowned by a protective naga serpent. The cylindrical shaft is surmounted by a hooded cobra, its broad canopy unfurling dramatically over the lingam to signify divine guardianship. The base is adorned with relief decoration and small animal figures, including a recumbent bull (Nandi) at the fore, emblematic mount of Shiva and a symbol of steadfast devotion. Lingams such as this were central to Shaivite worship, embodying both the cosmic generative force and the infinite nature of the deity. The presence of the naga, a serpent deeply associated with protection, fertility, and water, imbues the image with further potency. Together, the lingam and naga communicate themes of creation, preservation, and the eternal cycle of existence. Size: 4" L x 3.5" W x 4.2" H (10.2 cm x 8.9 cm x 10.7 cm)

Cast in leaded bronze, this piece reflects the technical mastery of medieval Indian metalworkers, who created enduring objects for temple shrines and domestic altars.

Provenance: ex-P.T. collection, Queens, New York, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#197508

  • Condition: Slight bending to form and weathering to surface with nicks, abrasions, and softening of detail as shown. Otherwise, very nice with earthen encrustations in recessed areas and rich patina throughout.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000