Ritual Conch shell (Shankha)

Northern India 

19th century 

Shell 

L16.5cm x W9cm; Weight: 555g

Private Uk collection

This white conch shell is beautifully carved with a stylized lotus motif. This type of right-spiralling conch holds deep ritual significance in Hinduism, particularly in connection with the god Vishnu, for whom the conch symbolises the primordial sound of Om from which the universe was created. The preserver god is often portrayed holding a conch shell in his upper left hand. In general the conch is an important ritual implement in both Hindu and Buddhist tradition, as Vishnu’s attribute and as a ritual instrument in Tibetan Buddhism.

Shankhas were used in temple rituals to sprinkle holy water (abhisheka) or blown to signal the start of ceremonies, believed to purify the space and invoke divine presence. The carved lotus motif, symbol of purity and spiritual awakening, emphasizes the conch's role as a sacred object tied to cosmic order and protection. Also, warriors in ancient India blew conch shells to announce the start of the battle, often described in the famous Indian epic, Mahabharata.   

The shell has an excellent patina from years of ritual use.

Reference:

See for a related example in the Isabella Stewart Garnder Museum, Boston