Antique Item - sourced in Maharastra
 
This brass KumKum box is shaped in a four pointed cross in motion resembling the Hindu Swastika. It has a bird figure in the middle, a hook closing and an old inscripton from a previous owner "Dakar. Bha". 
 
Once you have paid your respects and visited the Gods, whether in a public temple or at home, KumKum is applied to the forehead in a variation of colours or shapes depending on which God was visited. When a respected guest leaves the home also, KumKum the women often apply the powder to eachothers foreheads before departing. 
 
Note: The central bird figure is a little looser than we assume was originally intended for this box. However it doesn't affect the charm of the item, and simply adds a little motion to the piece. However you could likely adjust and restore this detail should you wish.
 
Dimensions + Weight:
 
Height: 6cm
Width: 9cm
Grams: 150g