India, ca. 17th century CE. A solid bronze ceremonial spoon depicting Krishna the "Butter Thief" as a youth holding a ball of butter that he stole from his stepmother, beneath a protective Naga, the multi-headed hooded cobra, at the upper end of the handle, and a pair of garudas in profile flanking the octagonal, lotus shaped ladle below. As mischievous children/babies, Baby Krishna or Bala Krishna and his older brother Balarama stole jars of butter and yogurt from their families and neighbors. Cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process, this beautiful bronze figural spoon presents the Butter Thief Krisha in a very dynamic pose. In addition, the incised decoration adorns nearly every surface on the front and back. Custom stand. Size: 6.375" L (16.2 cm); 7.125" H (18.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-private San Diego, California, USA collection

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#126172

Normal age wear, otherwise excellent. Beautiful patina.