Chinese Iron Vessel

Goblet of dark metal stands on a flat disc foot, flared like a trumpet.

This small iron vessel is from China, and dates to the 20th century. Iron vessels have been made in China for centuries for cooking, heating water and storage, valued for their strength and for how evenly they hold heat. Wide-mouthed cup with a bell-shaped bowl tapering to a short stem and a broad conical base. The metal is brown-black, uneven and matte, with traces of rust-colored patina on the foot. It is 10 inches high and 9.75 in diameter.

Formal enough for toasts, rough enough for anything.