Lingam stone · 15 cm

The stone as the earth formed it, simply freed from its matrix and cleaned. Sharp edges, irregular faces, a matte or glassy luster depending on the vein.

An ovoid brown-beige pebble marbled with red, polished by the river current and then finished by hand.

What tradition says. Gathered from the Narmada, one of the seven sacred rivers of India, in Hinduism it stands for the union of the masculine and feminine principles.

In practice. Set it on a tray, in a bowl, next to a candle. Rough pieces sit well beside polished ones, by contrast. Rinse under clear water and dry; some soft materials cannot take water, check first.

• The ovoid shape is natural: the river makes it, the craftsman only finishes it.
• Indicative size: 15 cm
• A natural piece: shade, veining and dimensions vary from one example to the next

A decorative object for personal practice. It is no substitute for medical advice or treatment.