Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Pale and sharply carinated, this one looks like a spinning top that learned to pour.

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. Pointed, angular belly flares from a narrow foot, with a tall funnel neck holding a bright, polished band near the top. The spout is short and thick, carved with a slanting feather pattern. The surface is soft silvery grey. It is 3 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 3.4 high.

Sharp shoulders and a quiet shine, quite pleased with itself.