Ritual Conch shell (Shankha)

Northern India 

19th century 

Marble

L16.5cm x W9cm; Weight: 555g

Private Uk collection

White marble conch shell carved with a stylized lotus motif. This type of right-spiraling conch holds deep ritual significance in Hinduism, particularly in connection with the god Vishnu, for whom the conch is both an emblem and a sacred instrument representing life. The god is often portrayed holding a conch.

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.