Anonymous.Conch shell with carved design. Conch shells (sankha or shankha) are common accessories of ascetics in India. This one has been cut at the tip so it can be blown into to make a loud noise. During the lifetime of Bhai Maharaj Singh conches such as this were used during daily religious activities.The shell measures 17 cm across at its longest point.F5009 - Conch shellF5010 - Finger ringF5011 - Small knifeF5012 - Sewing needle and cottonF5013 - Two steel quoitsMss Panj. A7 - Two hymns and a formulaThese objects belonged to Bhai Maharaj Singh; a Sikh warrior and leader who was a key player in the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-49).The objects listed were confiscated by Henry Vansittart in 1849 and were given to the India Office Library between 1925 and 1927 by his son.India; 1840's.From: Bhai Maharaj Singh Collection.F. 5009 F. 5010 F. 5011 F. 5012 F. 5013 & panj. A. 7London; British Library.