20th century AD. A large conch shell with silver-coloured metal mounts to the mouth and both ends, decorated with a repoussé frieze of vegetation and tendrils, inset cabochons; fish motif to the mouth; exposed shell surfaces polished. 549 grams, 24.5cm (9 3/4"). Acquired on the London art market before 1995. The conch, or Shanka, is used as both an offering vessel and a means to draw attention to the deity of the worshipper by blowing int it like a trumpet. The sound of the conch is said to be similar to that at the beginning of the universe with the Big Bang.

Fine condition.