19th C. Indian Brass Horse Votive Temple Toy

South Asia, India, ca. 19th century CE. A cast-brass horse figurine with a pair of axles suspended within both the front and rear hooves. The horse is adorned with finely delineated reins, saddle, and head harness, and the cap of each wheel is accentuated with a six-petaled flower. Votive horse toys like this example were left as offerings at a temple where children would find them. The donation of a horse to the gods was believed to place one in high standing with said deities, and equine figurines were a more cost-effective way for less-wealthy families to donate. Size: 4.375" L x 4" W x 4.25" H (11.1 cm x 10.2 cm x 10.8 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#134062
Condition Report: Separation to chin strap beneath chin, with light abrasions to horse, axles, and wheels, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.