Indian Idli or Cake Pan

Seen from above, five round wells sit on the dark floor like a game board.

This brass idli or cake pan is from India, and dates to the early 20th century. Brass cookware has long been used in Indian kitchens, and pans like this were often tinned inside, since uncoated brass can react with acidic foods. The surface is blackish with a coppery glow along the edges and the handle ends. It is 9.25 inches wide, 9.25 deep and 3.25 high.

A pocket-sized game of tidy portions.