Thali with Animal Figures

This is a brass thali (platter) from Karnataka, made using techniques such as repousse and engraving. Engraved in the central medallion are a hamsa, a royal elephant, a yali and a black buck deer. Surrounding these animal figures are rings of geometric, floral and foliate patterns. This platter would have been used in puja or worship rituals.
The yali is a mythological figure that is portrayed in different ways - as part lion, part elephant, part horse, or similar shapes. It is sometimes described as part lion and part griffin, with bird-like features. The yali is considered as protection to ward off evil. The hamsa, most likely a swan or goose, is a symbol of purity, detachment and divine knowledge. The elephant is a symbol of fertility, strength and wisdom. The black buck deer used to be a symbol for many princely states in India.