The stone sculpture of the peacock-beautiful work of art-to the members of the Santal tribe, one of the largest tribal communities of India having a substantial presence in the state of Jharkhand. Rich in artistic and ritualistic traditions, the Santals use nature for living and all their ceremonial observances. The stone-carved icon of the peacock could have been placed on the ground; with its flat bottom for stability and ease of use, it could have been placed on a household altar or an altar for rituals. The neck of the peacock gives a graceful appearance to the bird, while the wings of this peacock have been carved in raised relief, almost suggesting a semblance of life. The raised tail is one of its most prominent features, which has eight small holes carved on top and is meticulously engraved.

These holes would have served a utilitarian function-an incense burner-allowing the fragrant smoke to rise during ritualistic ceremonies or daily prayers. In the tradition of India, the peacock is worshipped as a symbol of beauty, prosperity, and a harbinger of spiritual ascent, while the Santals attribute great significance to bird existence as those that convey messages from the world of the living to the heavenly sphere. The burning of incense within a peacock effigy itself symbolizes the appreciation of beauty but also signifies that the scent wafting in the air purifies the space and creates a pathway to their ancestors and deities. The object shows a reflection of the closeness the Santals share with nature, being able to blend works of art that are both functional and symbolic in its material culture.