A ghurra is a traditional Nepalese attribute used in the process of churning (yak)milk into butter. In its essence it is a holder that keeps the churning rod in place. But for animistic Nepalese tribes, it is certainly not just a practical tool. The process of churning the milk is seen as a small-scale reflection of the sacred Hindu creation story ‘Samudra Manthana’, that tells how the primordial Ocean of Milk was churned by the devas (gods) and asuras (demons). The process of churning is thus seen as a ‘darshan’ moment; it is very sacred because it is connected to an underlying meaning and significance that has been there already for ages. Also the process is seen as a purification-process. Undergoing this sacred process, the milk turns into a more pure and sacred substance.
Most ghurra’s are carved in very symbolic shapes and decorated with symbols that connect them to the stories and worlds of the gods. Most ghurra’s consist of a round part (the solar disk, symbol of Vishnu and the universal soul) connected with a vertical lingam-shape part (symbol of Shiva). Both parts can be elaborately decorated with further symbolism.
The ghurra can thus be considered an object of such important symbolism, that it is nowadays often found far away from the churn-jar; as a ceremonial attribute in itself. And as such it has of course also found its way as a collection-worthy curiosity all over the world and can now be found in the showcases of private collectioners and musea.
This ghurra is beautiful in its simplicity. It can be determined somewhere in the first quarter of the 20th century and is (especially considering this age) in good, stable condition.
A unique item to put on your altar.
Sizes; approximately 32 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. Weight; 285 grams.
