About this piece
The Kuthu Vilakku is a standing oil lamp from South India, used in homes and temples. This one from Puyangam is polished brass, with a stem of rings and discs, small oil bowls near the top and an Annam, a swan, rising above them.
The seller lists it at 10 inches tall. The photos show two lamps standing together beside flowers, and a drawing of one marked at 10 inches. It suits a puja room or a table near the mandir.
How it is used
Filled with oil and lit with wicks in the bowls, usually on a puja shelf or at the entrance of the prayer room. In many South Indian homes such lamps are lit at dawn and dusk.
Looking after it
- Polish brass with a soft cloth when it dulls.
- Wash off old oil with warm soapy water and dry well.
