Antique Dhorka Brass Measuring Bowl, India (9500C-VAH) $155
$155.00
H: 3.75” Dia: 3.75” | FREE SHIPPING!
Dhokra items like this measuring bowl for rice or other grains are beautifully and often intricately decorated, very accessible, made with an appealing simplicity and in uncomplicated forceful and captivating forms. Made by the lost wax technique, each item has a distinct one-of-a-kind identity as the mold is broken after use so no copies can be made. This charming piece is a typical small grain measure, with a rounded lip, bulging body, and handle for hanging and decorated with horizontal striations across the top half bordered by a band of downward striated triangles, and a broad horizontal band at the center. It is in very good condition with a smooth patina from prolonged use and its considerable age.
Description
Antique copper based alloy bronze and brass vessels, figures, religious and functional items objects have long been the specialty of East Indian Dhorka Damar tribes metal smiths who continue to use the same lost wax technique of metal casting used for over 4000 years, and extremely labor intensive and time consuming process including making unique one time use molds decorated with coils made from beeswax and natural gums to create remarkable intricate and highly recognizable designs. Their folk art style of metalwork includes utilitarian and functional objects like this grain/rice measuring bowl which is made in different sizes. As a form of Hindu ritual art this type of bowl was regarded as a symbol of the goddess Lakshmi and was greatly prized by local villagers who could afford them and used them for puja home worship placed on a home altar. Unfortunately, like most authentic ethnographic art and artifacts the craft and techniques of a diminishing number of metal smiths used to create new ones have been declining for many years. Items produced by Dhokra tribal artisans, especially antique pieces, are in demand domestically and internationally, and are, consequently, are collectible yet affordable.
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Additional information
| Place of Origin | India |
|---|---|
| Period | Antique (1200-1920) |
| Date | 1880-1920 |
| Materials and Technique | Bronze/brass/copper alloy |
| Dimensions (inches) | Ht: 3.75” Dia: 3.75 |
| Dimensions (metric) | Ht: 9.52cm Dia: 9.52cm |
| Weight | 2 lbs |
| Condition | Very good, patina and wear consistent with age and use |
| Reference Number | 9500C-VAH |
