Indian Idli or Cake Pan

Firmly, a shallow dish divided into three round wells, with ear-like handles.

This brass idli or cake pan is from India, and dates to the 20th century. Brass cookware has been used in Indian kitchens for centuries because the metal conducts heat well and can be polished and cleaned for daily use. Noted first, a wide, shallow dish with a flat rim, two small upright loop handles, and three round hollows set into the inside. It sits on a small round foot. The surface is a dark yellow-brown, scuffed and burnished by use. It is 7.25 inches wide, 6.25 deep and 3.25 high.

Three little compartments and a very organized attitude.