Indian Footed Holy Water Vessel

A tall, trumpet-mouthed cup on a small foot, mottled like old tea stains.

This brass footed holy water vessel is from Karnataka, South India, and dates to the 19th century. Karnataka has a long metalworking tradition, with South Indian casters producing lamps, bells, vessels and images in brass and bronze. A deep, straight-sided body flares at the rim into a wide, thin lip. Two fine grooves circle the upper part. A short stem opens into a rounded foot. The surface is blotchy golden-brown, with darker spots and a light sheen. It is 2.9 inches high and 3.5 in diameter.

Elegant lines, slightly mottled pride, no hurry.