Rare 19th Century Copper Yoni Ritual Pourer

This rare Yoni Ritual Pourer was sourced in Nepal but is probably of Indian origin.   This ritual vessel for pouring holy water is handcrafted from beaten copper.  It has an elongated bulbous form with a flared and ridged spout at one end, and represents the female genitalia.  It is used in Saivite temples to lustrate (ritually purify) its male equivalent, the lingam (phallus) and emblem of Siva.

This fairly large example is in good structural condition and has clearly been used.  It has a rich patina commensurate with its age. 

Although this is not a singing bowl it is another sacred object with a connection to the region, and I have no doubt it will be of considerable interest to collectors of rare Himalayan ritual and ceremonial antiquities.  I have others in my private collection, the smallest of which is just 14cm in length, should you be interested.

Note: 

A larger but virtually identical Yoni Ritual Pourer was sold at auction in 2010 for £1,000.  

A rare Yoni Lingam Ceremonial Vessel can be seen here.