Brunei Brassware

Rare Brass Lotus-Form Covered Bowl

The base and cover of this unusual and good-sized cast brass vessel are in the form of an open lotus; the petals are clearly evident. The lotus form suggests Indian influence.

The bowl stands on a splayed foot that is decorated with scrolling, interlaced leaf designs that are typical of Borneo The lid is tight fitting. Most likely, such a bowl was used to store food – perhaps rice or fresh eggs. The heavy, tight-fitting lid was designed to keep small animals out.

A near-identical example is in the National Museum of Singapore Collection (catalogue no.B0076) and is illustrated in Singh (1985, p. 3.)

Such vessels are cast using the lost wax process. They exude a naive charm, and despite their utilitarian nature, have a pleasing sculptural form.

Singh, B.,

Malay Brassware, National Museum of Singapore, 1985.

UK art market