India
Anointing Spoon
This anointing spoon pictured to the right comes from the state of Kerala, located in the southwest region of India. Such spoons or ladles can be made from several different types of metals such as copper, bronze, brass, pewter, or gunmetal. They are commonly used in various Hindu rituals accompanying a pot that holds sacred water or other anointing liquid. This metal spoon displays the god Krishna who is trampling the serpent, Kaliya, while the seven-headed cobra, Shesha Naga dwells over him with its hood extended in a protective stance.
Baby Rattle -Kilukiluppai
A kilukiluppai is a traditional toy made for babies. These baby rattles are usually crafted from wood, cane, bamboo, or palm leaves. It is woven in the shape of a star, a commonly woven shape for such toys. Other woven rattles may come in the shape of a box. Palm leaves are an easily accessible material used throughout India for many different crafts. In the early 20th century, children learned from a very young age to weave mats, baskets, fans, hats, as well as make different animals and flower shaped toys from palm leaves. Still made and used throughout India, today, the Kilukiluppai can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It can be seen in a natural color or colored bright with the use of dyed leaves.