Bronze Khandoba Riding a Horse From Maharasthra – 18th Century

This Indian cast bronze figure of Khandoba on horseback dates to the 18th century – possibly 17th century. It is from Maharashtra or Karnataka. Khandoba is a warrior manifestation of Shiva most often worshipped in central and southern India. He is worshipped as Mallanna in The Deccan, & Khandero in Rajasthan.

Khandoba can be seen wielding a sword in his right hand, and his left hand clutching the reins. This is unusual as he usually holds a shield, or his consort in his left hand. The bridle the horse wears is beautifully carved as a woven ropework. Khandoba is detachable from horse and the base is adorned with inscriptions in Kannada. The inscriptions state “Salutations to Sri Khandoba, Offering by (either Mallappa or Lingappa) Rāya in the year saka 1081 (1781 CE).”

References:

For a similar example see Change & Continuity: Folk & Tribal Art of India by Brian A Dursam, fig 79.

A similar example can be found in the Metropolitan Museum in New York.