Indian Miniature Kamandalu or Holy Water Vessel

A long pouring spout juts out of a pot that has clearly been handled a lot.

This miniature brass kamandalu or holy water vessel is from India, and dates to the 19th century. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that has long been used in India for ritual and household vessels, and it is easily cast and polished. Round-bellied vessel with a ringed neck and flared lip, a slender angled spout at the shoulder and a flaring stepped foot. The metal is a warm brassy brown with dull patches, dark crevices and a softly rubbed finish. It is 2.75 inches wide, 4.25 deep and 3.25 high.

Built for pouring, and still poised to do it.