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$1,950
An impressive late-19th-century Indian decorative vessel, beautifully hand worked in tinned copper and distinguished by its substantial bulbous form, elongated architectural neck and exceptionally dense engraved decoration. Attributed to Northern India and dating to circa 1890, the piece reflects the enduring influence of Mughal and Indo-Persian decorative traditions. The vessel rises from a circular foot into a broad compressed spherical body. A pronounced band of deeply modeled vertical ribbing encircles the lower body, while the sloping shoulder is covered with elaborate hand-chased scrolling vines, stylized leaves, palmettes and floral arabesques. The tall neck is articulated by projecting ringed bands and pointed architectural panels filled with further floral decoration, recalling ornamental vocabulary found in Mughal architecture. A broad flared mouth with a rope-twist border completes the composition. The surface has developed a complex antique patina ranging from warm copper and bronze-brown tones to deep brown oxidation, with traces of an earlier silvery tinned finish in recessed passages and portions of the interior. These variations emphasize the engraved decoration and should be preserved rather than aggressively polished. Presented today as a sculptural decorative vase and collectible example of Indian Islamic metalwork. Its ability to hold water has not been tested. Ideal for a console, library shelf, mantel or pedestal within a sophisticated contemporary, Mediterranean, Anglo-Indian, wabi-sabi or collected eclectic interior. Northern India, circa 1890.
