Indian Bronze Ritual Water Vessel Lota with Bull Head Spout

Early to mid 19th Century, Kerala, South India

Absolutely charming, rare and aged cast bronze ceremonial water vessel (lota) from Kerala, South India. It has a spherical, slightly compressed heavy body, a low foot, a short neck which opens to a wide mouth and a beautiful sturdy spout which ends with Nandi terminal. Nandi (also known as Nandikeshvara or Nandideva), is the bull vehicle (vahana) of the Hindu god Shiva. The body with engraved fine lines around the shoulder, and other motifs. The bull head with long snout, pointy horns and laid back ears. Lota, such as this finely cast example, would have been reserved for sacred ceremonial purposes, for holding and serving holy water. Excellent condition. Age-related wear and light abrasion. Superb dark brown patina. Interior with encrusted, build-up residue, consistent with age and sustained usage. Size approx. 18,5cm x 13,5cm x 11,5cm.  

Provenance: Finnish private collection

For a similar example see:

Lota; water-ewer, The British Museum, Accession number: 1992,1009.2 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1992-1009-2)

References and further reading:

Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, Mark Zebrowski, Publisher: Alexandria Press, London, 1997.