Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Dumpy at the base, pointy at the top, and thoroughly well handled in between.

This brass oil lamp is from India, and dates to the 20th century. Oil lamps are used throughout India in homes and temples, and lighting a lamp is a common part of daily worship and of festivals such as Diwali. Golden-brown vessel with a broad domed shoulder, a short collar and a tall thin finial. The waist is wide and stepped above a heavy flared foot. A few dents and soft scuffs mark the foot, and the surface is warm and mellow. It is 6 inches high and 3 in diameter.

Sturdy, rounded, cheerfully dented and entirely unbothered.