16th c Hindu Icon 'Nandi' - this wonderful piece, formerly a finial on a temple bell, is 'Nandi', or Lord Shiva's mount, also known as the 'gate-guardian of Kailasa, Lord Shiva's abode. It is fitting that, with its fecundity and awesome power, the bull should be associated with the god. Its worship and relationship with the Lord has been traced back to the early Indus Valley civilization (see Mohenjo daro and Harappa) and earlier. The piece bears the patina and satiny finish of a relic reverently used for hundreds of years (notice how the superficial features have disappeared...only the essence remains. And the Shiva lingam between its front legs.). Tamil Nadu, s India; bronze; 1 1/4"h x 1 1/2"w. or 3.2cm x 3.8cm. SOLD