Collection box - Kāmadhenu

Collection box - Kāmadhenu, single piece

Painted sheet metal, early 20th century.

A charmingly beautiful, small collection box originates from South India. Simple, metal collection boxes can be found in and around most Hindu temples. You can leave a monetary donation in the collection box to help the local sacred cows. The lockable, sturdy box is made of tin and has a picture of a sacred cow and a serial number painted on the front. On both sides of the box are texts written in Sankrit, thanking and wishing good luck to the donor. Great patina. In good condition. Age-appropriate wear and signs of use. Rust, dents and scratches. Approx. 155mm x 110mm x 65mm.

Symbol meaning

In Hinduism, the cow is a sacred animal, a symbol of abundance and fertility. Most Hindus revere the cow as a matriarchal figure and associate it with Mother Earth. The cow is not specifically worshipped, but it is treated with respect. It is strictly forbidden to kill a cow. In ancient Hindu texts, the cow appears as Kāmadhenu, or the divine cow, which fulfills all wishes made to it. Its horns symbolize the gods, its four strong limbs symbolize the ancient scriptures (Vedas), and its udders symbolize the four goals of life: hope, righteousness, material prosperity, and salvation.

The cow is also associated with other important gods, such as Shiva (whose steed was the bull, Nandi). Krishna was considered to protect cows (he also herded them in his youth). In addition, there are several religious stories about the cow that show the cow to be sacred (including the story of a childless king who, by caring for a cow, received a blessing and a son). Hindus believe that if a cow dies at home, its owner must go around all the holy cities of India to be forgiven for his sins. Cows are often set free when they stop producing milk. A pious Hindu also leaves food on the street for the cows.