Lamp with Kalasha Finial

This is a lost-wax cast bronze oil lamp with a stylized Kalasam finial from Kerala. The Kalasam (or kalasha) is considered a symbol of abundance and "source of life" in the Vedas. The Kalasam is believed to contain amrita, the elixir of life, and is viewed as a symbol of abundance, wisdom, and immortality. Below the finial is the oil reservoir with seven petal-like projections for the wicks. The balustrade stem is then interspersed with flat disc motifs and circular ridges that give it a beautiful texture. At the base is a circular drip pan on a ring foot.
The ancient art of lost-wax casting dates back nearly 6000 years in India. First, an artist creates an original model from wax. Everything is then encased with layers of clay, thus becoming a mould for the molten metal that will be poured inside it. When this is poured in, the wax melts and the original is lost. Once the metal hardens, the outer layer of clay is smashed, which is what makes each piece unique.