Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Ringed like a tree and capped with a pointed finial, this one has a faint dark smudge on its flank.

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 vessel with a rounded shoulder and tapering waist above a wide flared foot. Fine ring grooves wrap the body and a tall narrow finial rises from the top. A small dark mark sits on the side and the surface is soft and worn. It is 6 inches high and 3 in diameter.

Rings, rounds and one mysterious thumbprint.