Hamsa Thali - 05

This highly detailed brass, repoussé, engraved and chased platter or thali is from Sri Lanka. In the central medallion are engraved four intertwined swans or hamsas. Hamsa is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. It is seen as a symbol of purity, detachment and divine knowledge. Hamsa symbolises the highest spiritual accomplishment as it swims in water, walks on earth, and flies in the sky.  In the wide concentric band that surrounds the medallion are intricate scrollwork floral designs, with two pairs of swans standing back-to-back, as well as two pairs of yalis facing each other. The lip of the plate has a concentric band of scrollwork floral designs mirroring that around the medallion. This platter would have been used in puja/worship rituals. The platter has a handmade brass holder so that it can be hung on the wall.