Temple Aarti Ritual Spoon

Artifact Details

Estimated Period: Early to Mid-20th Century
Region: South India
Material: Solid Sand-Cast Brass
Weight: 0.5 kg

Context

This cast brass aarti spoon reflects traditional sand-casting practices common to village foundries across South India in the early 20th century.

The surface retains the subtle granular texture characteristic of sand mould casting, along with minor asymmetries consistent with hand finishing. Its substantial weight indicates a solid-gauge construction appropriate for sustained exposure to ritual flame during camphor offering.

Such implements were used in temple and domestic aarti ceremonies, where heat tolerance and durability were essential.

Iconography

The handle terminates in a Matsya (sacred fish) form, associated with preservation and renewal within Vaishnavite tradition. Rising above is a Naga (serpent) hood finial - a protective motif frequently incorporated into ritual metalwork.

The hand-incised scaling visible on the hood reflects artisanal surface treatment rather than mechanical finishing.

Condition

Surface patina consistent with age.
Granular casting texture intact.
Structurally sound with no visible structural compromise.

Curatorial Note

Retained within the Marabu Archive as a representative example of early solid-gauge ritual casting and dual-motif iconography.

Status: Preserved in the Marabu Private Collection