Indian Brass Oil Lamp

Smooth-shouldered and stately, with a belly that swells before cinching in at the waist.

This brass oil lamp is from India, and dates to the 20th century. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that casts easily and polishes to a warm gold colour, and it is the usual metal for Indian lamps and ritual vessels. Golden vessel with a full domed shoulder, a short neck and a tall finial. A raised ring circles the widest point, then the body narrows gracefully to a tall pedestal foot. The surface is smooth with a warm, soft glow. It is 6.5 inches high and 2.75 in diameter.

A good silhouette needs no excuses.