Makara Apex of Ceremonial Mace

Brass makara shaped apex of a choba or ceremonial mace from Gujarat. Such maces were not weapons but symbolised authority and power. Courtiers might have held them aloft to show support of the king. Mace bearers would walk ahead of the king to announce his presence. The mace is also a symbol of authority in legal settings, indicating the presence of a judge or other high official. The makara is an auspicious aquatic creature in Hindu mythology.