A LARGE AND MASSIVE 'COSMIC EGG', BRAHMANDA, INDIA, 19TH CENTURY The stone of typical ovoid form and finely polished with distinct natural markings in blood-red and creamy-white, interspersed with small round specks of natural russet color.

Provenance: From a private collection in southern Germany, mostly assembled between the 1960s and 1980s, and thence by descent to the last owner.
Condition: Very good condition with old wear and weathering as expected, few light nicks and scratches, natural fissures. The base with extensive wear, minor losses and natural age cracks.

Dimensions: Height 37 cm (excl. stand), 49 cm (incl. stand)

With a rare, matching wood stand dating from the same period, finely carved and painted. (2)

Cosmic eggs are so called because in the Hindu religion they symbolize the union between heaven and earth. These natural stones were collected from the Narmada river in ancient times and it is believed that a meteorite colored the stone on its impact with the earth. The natural markings on the egg-shaped form symbolize the male and female principles in a single unit, a realization of the wholeness of the entire universe.

Literature comparison:
For a related brahmanda, see A. Mookerjee, Yoga Art, 1975, pl 39, p.71.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Closely related
Auction: Galerie Zacke Vienna, 6 March 2021, lot 748
Price: EUR 16,432 or approx. EUR 18,500 adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: An Indian stone Brahmanda, 'cosmic egg', and matching bronze tripod stand
Expert remark: Compare the form and markings. Note the size (23 cm).