Mukha-liṅga of Śiva based on Yoni, Southern India, Deccan, 18th century - Lost wax bronze casting - India - Maratha Empire (1674-1818)

Mukha-liṅga of Śiva based on Yoni, lost-wax cast bronze, South India, probably Deccan, 18th–19th century.

Small and intense devotional sculpture for Śivaitic worship: a liṅga with the face of the god (mukha-liṅga), mounted on a yoni base with a drainage spout (somasūtra) for libations during abhiṣeka. Cast in copper alloy (bronze/brass) using the lost-wax technique, with punch finishes; internal cavity tapered and with a through-hole at the foot, consistent with ritual use. The face is reduced to essential forms, with features naturally worn from use: surfaces are soft and polished from repeated applications of water, milk, and ghee; the hanging earrings (kuṇḍala) and the long hair gathered in a jaṭā that falls back remain visible. The yoni plate is irregular and slightly asymmetrical, with a beveled edge; the stepped pedestal retains a beautiful warm patina with minute oxidations consistent with its age.
Condition: good and authentically 'lived-in'; widespread wear from use, small chips, and signs of aging.