18th-19th Century Bheru Bhairava Form of Shiva Amulet, Rajasthan, India, 12.5 Grams

This is a small late 18th -19th century high grade silver amulet pendant worn by the tribal people of Rajasthan northern India. The amulet pendant is in the shape of a yoni or leaf of the sacred pipal tree - the bottom pointing ovule, and die-stamped with a decorative bale and floral unit added, a silver rolled border, and a decorative terminal point at the bottom.

As this amulet has had so much loving wear - the bale had worn through from constant rubbing from a chain - and has been silver mended.   A part of the rolled silver border is missing.  From the listing photos you will see that the figure is quite raised from the surface of the silver sheet.

The subject of the amulet is in the form of the four armed Bheru or Bhairava form of Shiva in his fearful aspect travelling with his dog. The deity is widely worshipped by Bhil tribals, one of the largest tribal communities in India.  Shiva, especially in his Bhairava form has a drum, trishula or (trident) sword, a snake (nāga), skull-mace (khatvanga).  The sun symbol of Surya, and the crested moon symbol of Chandra are above either side of the head.

The amulet has been strung on a new black Indian traditional handmade cotton thread cord with a looped end closing.   It has been silver tested for high grade silver.  This is an original antique worn collection piece in good condition.  I have cleaned the amulet to highlight the beautiful well worn figure of Bheru Bhairava. 

Height: 6 cm (2 1/4") including Bale
Width: 4 cm (1 1/2")
Bale: 5 mm (1/4")
Weight: 12.5 grams
Black Indian Cotton Cord:  42 cm (16”)
Material: Tested silver high grade 92.5% approx.