Indian Spouted Lota

Superb Bronze Spouted Lota

India

circa 18th century

length: 22cm, height: 13.2cm, weight: 1,000g

This Indian bronze drinking vessel or spouted lota is notable for several reasons: it has a beautiful, sculptural form with an unusually long and prominent spout relative to the body; the patina is even, smooth and lustrous; and the condition is perfect. It is the most well proportioned spouted lota that we have seen.

It has a flattened, spherical body; a thick, round neck; a wide, concave neck at the rim; a curved, elegant spout that narrows as it reaches the aperture; and a flared, ring foot.

Spouted lotas were used in India to store and serve water. Water was tipped from the spout into the mouth (although not by actually putting the lips to the spout.) Also, in south India, they were used to pour water over the hands and feet.

This fine example is of a form typical of the eighteenth century. Its surface is plain and unembellished. It is a superb, perfectly-cast example.

References

Zebrowski, M., Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, Alexandria Press, 1997.

Provenance

UK art market

Inventory no.: 1914

SOLD