Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Very dark and compact, this vessel has a red-and-white cord trailing from its 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. Small round body with a small beaded band at the shoulder, a funnel mouth with a pale knot of cord at the neck and a tiny loop on the side. The surface is nearly black with small scuffs. It is 2.75 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 3.5 high.

Dark and understated, aside from the cheerful cord.