Indian Brass Oil Lamp

A golden vessel with a braided cord threaded through its long spout.

This brass oil lamp is from India, and dates to the 19th century. Lamps are lit in Hindu homes and temples as part of daily devotion, and light is generally taken to stand for knowledge overcoming darkness. Bright golden body with a wide, flat-edged mouth and beaded rings at neck and waist. The spout carries a pale, twisted cord that curves outward, and the surface shows scuffs and darker patches. It is 2.75 inches wide, 4 deep and 3 high.

A bright little pot with a cord to match.