This gold finial is a kendi spout in ‘naga’ form, a mythical serpent in Hindu-Buddhist mythology. It has a highly ornamented crown and scale-like body. This ornament was made during the Indo-Javanese period which saw the use of Indian symbols in Javanese goldwork. It could have been a ritual vessel used in temple ceremonies which emphasized the symbolism of water and employed the use of water vessels such as kendi and ewers. The use of naga as spout reflects the symbolism of naga as an underwater creature.
