Item Records

This page shows all the information we have about this item. Both the institution that physically holds this item, and RRN members have contributed the knowledge on this page. You’re looking at the item record provided by the holding institution. If you scroll further down the page, you’ll see the information from RRN members, and can share your own knowledge too.

The RRN processes the information it receives from each institution to make it more readable and easier to search. If you’re doing in-depth research on this item, be sure to take a look at the Data Source tab to see the information exactly as it was provided by the institution.

These records are easy to share because each has a unique web address. You can copy and paste the location from your browser’s address bar into an email, word document, or chat message to share this item with others.

  • Data
  • Data Source

This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Modeled clay figure of a bull. Hollow construction of basic form with details applied. The bull wears a full bridle collar of bells, and a multicoloured back blanket with geometric designs. The horns are decorated on the tips and a forehead ornament is attached around the horns. There are yellow rings around each ankle.

History Of Use

Figures of the village offerings are made, usually by special arrangement by velar potters. These offerings are presented during a village festival at a local temple, clay bulls from the size of this example to over life-size are offered, often several at a time and in conjunction with horses, as vehicles for the great village gods to ride on their nightly protective rounds. These are set up in front of or inside the village temple.

Iconographic Meaning

Bull: is revered and holy animal in India and is considered a suitable mount for the village gods through its association in classical Hinduism with the great god Shiva.

Cultural Context

ritual; religious offering

Item History

With an account, you can ask other users a question about this item. Request an Account

With an account, you can submit information about this item and have it visible to all users and institutions on the RRN. Request an Account

Similar Items