Thali with Parrots

This repousse and engraved brass thali or platter is from South India. A series of foliate, geometric and plain bands are arranged concentrically around a central engraving of a pair of adorsed (back to back) parrots or parakeets. The outermost border is fluted. This platter would have been used in puja or worship rituals.
The parakeet (a small parrot) is associated in Hindu mythology with Kama, the God of Love. Parrots are also used to show the gentler side of the Goddess or Devi, instead of a lion or tiger.