Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Heavy rope-twist belt cinches the middle, with a curl of ornament beside the 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. Plump, rounded body in warm yellow-gold tones sits on a small stepped foot. A thick twisted band runs across the belly, joined by a looping appliqued scroll near the spout base. The mouth flares widely with a corded rim, and the surface is lightly scuffed. It is 3 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 3.5 high.

Dressed for dinner, with a very serious belt.