Indian Vessel with Ring Handles

Hammered by hand, ringed like a prizefighter's bucket, and in no hurry to be lifted.

This copper vessel with ring handles comes from India and is contemporary work. It belongs to a long line of large Indian water pots, made for carrying and storing water at home or at a temple, or for cooking in quantity at festivals. A rolled rim tops the deep, dark brown body, whose surface is dented all over with small hammer marks. Stud-centered diamonds ring the shoulder, set against a paler band. Heavy rings hang from riveted lugs. A seam of rivets runs down one side. Twenty-five inches high and 25 in diameter.

There is room in it for almost anything but doubt.