Indian Child Protection Charm: "Nandi"
Collection: Everyday Connections
Object Category: Charms and Talismans
Object Type: Child Protection Charms
Country: India
Continent: Asia
Geographic Region: Southern Asia
Materials: Wood
width: 6.5 in;
height: 9.5 in;
depth: 2.5 in
This figure of a bull, called "Nandi," is a child protection charm. Traditionally, grandfathers carve the Nandi for their grandchildren to protect them from harm.
Nandi exemplifies the docile and faithful nature of the perfect devotee. A statue of Nandi can often be seen at the entrance to a Shiva temple, watching over an alter to Shiva or at the entrance of a Saivite shrine. Smaller carvings can be used in home temples devoted to Shiva.
Source:
http://lotus-sculpture.stores.yahoo.net