Mayur Akhand Jyot:

An "Akhand Jyot" is a traditional Hindu oil or ghee lamp, where "Akhand" means uninterrupted and "Jyot" means flame. These lamps are often kept burning continuously for several days during religious festivals like Navratri to symbolize devotion, knowledge, and the presence of the divine. The term "Mayur" refers to the peacock, which is a sacred bird in Indian culture and a symbol of beauty, grace, and spirituality.

​Material and Appearance:

The lamp is made of German silver, which is an alloy of copper, zinc, and nickel. Despite its name, it contains no silver but is known for its lustrous, silvery appearance and resistance to tarnish, making it an excellent choice for intricate decorative items like this one. The piece has a polished, shiny silver finish.

​Detailed Description of the Design:

• ​Top (Lid and Finial): The top of the lamp is a dome-shaped lid, which is intricately carved with a floral or a filigree pattern. A prominent finial, in the form of a peacock ("Mayur"), sits on top. The peacock is shown with its head raised and its feathers detailed, holding what appears to be a small bell or a decorative element in its beak. This peacock figure is the most distinctive feature of the piece.
• ​Lamp Body: The cylindrical body of the lamp is the most visually striking part. It features a finely detailed, perforated jaali (lattice) pattern. This intricate cutout work allows the light from the flame inside to radiate outward, creating a beautiful effect. The pattern appears to be a repeating motif of stylized leaves or floral vines.
• ​Base: The lamp sits on a multi-tiered, ornate base. The base has several layers, each with a different decorative pattern. The top tier of the base has a similar filigree pattern to the lamp's body, while the lower, wider tier has a series of repetitive, scalloped or fan-like designs, adding to the overall grandeur of the piece.

​Function and Purpose:

This type of Akhand Jyot is used for religious rituals and as a decorative item in home temples (Pooja Ghar). The design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a practical purpose: the lid and the peacock finial act as a chimney to protect the flame from drafts, ensuring it burns steadily for an extended period. The entire piece is designed to be a centerpiece of a sacred space, a beautiful object of devotion