Vintage Brass Gauri Mukhakriti

This collectible is a fine Gauri mukhakriti sourced from Kolhapur in Maharashtra. The ornate Gauri has well defined features with beautiful almond shaped eyes, small smiling lips, fine ornaments adorning the neck as well as the ears. The Gauri adorns an ornate crown that has fine detailing. The piece is in great condition and does not have any physical damage despite its age.

Use of Gauri Heads/Masks in Indian Tradition: Gauri (another name for Parvati) is the consort of Lord Shiva and the epitome of marital fidelity and devotion. Gauris are normally worshipped in pairs in Maharashtra/Karnataka during "Gauri Puja" which happens around the same time as the widely celebrated Ganesh Utsav. These Gauri heads/Masks are normally used over many years and passed on from one generation to another with the Gauris being adorned with fresh paint every year before the festivities of Gauri puja.