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This elaborately fashioned circular white metal box with a lid is an artifact traditionally associated with the Kondh tribe of Odisha. The entire body of the box is covered with ingrained floral and leaf patterns, which are a signature of Kondh tribal artistry, symbolic meanings attributed to them being very deep into their nature as well as spiritual belief system.The box is small and compact in form, yet great in its functional significance and adornment. White metal, a durable silvery alloy commonly used in tribal and rural Indian metalwork for ornamental and functional purposes, is the material. The fine leafy engravings have a meaning beyond pure decoration; they symbolize the importance that the Kondh community attributes to nature, fertility, and growth-an idea that resembles their animistic belief system.Traditionally used for storing valuable items such as herbal medicines, vermilion (sindoor), sacred ash, ornaments, or ritual powders, the tight-fitting lid indicates a need for the community to protect these objects from contamination and misuse.
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This elaborately fashioned circular white metal box with a lid is an artifact traditionally associated with the Kondh tribe of Odisha. The entire body of the box is covered with ingrained floral and leaf patterns, which are a signature of Kondh tribal artistry, symbolic meanings attributed to them being very deep into their nature as well as spiritual belief system.The box is small and compact in form, yet great in its functional significance and adornment. White metal, a durable silvery alloy commonly used in tribal and rural Indian metalwork for ornamental and functional purposes, is the material. The fine leafy engravings have a meaning beyond pure decoration; they symbolize the importance that the Kondh community attributes to nature, fertility, and growth-an idea that resembles their animistic belief system.Traditionally used for storing valuable items such as herbal medicines, vermilion (sindoor), sacred ash, ornaments, or ritual powders, the tight-fitting lid indicates a need for the community to protect these objects from contamination and misuse.
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Rich in cultural traditions and artistic heritage, Kondh constitutes one such tribe residing in the forested and hill regions of Orissa. Their craft reflects their deep relationship with Nature: every object, every design, and every motif is believed to carry with it a spirit. Thus, this box illustrates the consummate union of utility and ornamentation so intrinsic to the making of the Kondh, who forge objects that are at once useful and worthy in cultural and spiritual terms.
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