Bidspirit auction | A PAIR OF INDIAN DRAGON-HEADED

A PAIR OF INDIAN DRAGON-HEADED BRONZE HANDLES - India, Ca. 16th - 17th century AD. A finely cast pair of bronze handles, originally affixed to a large chest or ceremonial casket. Each handle is formed as a robust circular ring, terminating in intricately sculpted zoomorphic heads, likely representing yalis (mythical lion-like creatures), dragons, or elephants, which hold deep protective and auspicious symbolism. Such bronze fittings were commonly used on wooden temple chests, dowry boxes, or royal storage containers, where they served both as functional grips and decorative elements. The imposing sculptural quality of the terminals suggests these were commissioned for a high-status or religious purpose, possibly adorning a temple treasury chest or an aristocratic strongbox. Size: 105-110mm x 90-100mm; Weight: 520g Provenance: Previous property of a UK based Islamic art professional.