Lingam by Lladró

 Lingam is a devotional porcelain piece used in the rituals of the god Shiva, which inspired the sculptor when she visited Varanasi and discovered the visual impact of Hindu ritual. The Shiva Lingam stone has been placed in the inner sanctum of every temple for more than two thousand years, worshipped as a standing stone which grew from the ground of its own volition, and supremely sacred. It represents the creative union that generates and sustains life in the Universe. It has a double function, to receive offerings and to collect the liquids used during the rituals. Finished in grey stoneware, with glazes and gold luster decorating much of the object. A highly decorative piece. Made in Spain. 9 1/2" in height.