Enquiry about object: 10339
Brass Aquamanile in the form of the Sacred Swan (Hamsa)
India, probably Deccan 17th-early 18th century
height: 28cm, length: 26cm, weight: 1,002g
Provenance
private collection, US
This exceptional spouted water jug or aquamanile (aftaba), is in the form of a standing sacred swan or hamsa, atop a rectangular, pierced base.
The vessel has been finely cast and then chiselled and engraved with feathers and other details.
The prominent tail is pierced and engraved to further denote feathers.
The back has been cast with a large, round handle with an opening in the middle that is covered with a hinged lid. This is where the vessel is filled. It is then emptied via the spout formed as a the hamsa’s neck and head.
Zebrowski (1997, p. 153) suggests that the handle-filling form originated first in Iran and then spread to India.
The vessel here is in excellent condition with a lovely patina.
References
Zebrowski, M., Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, Alexandria Press, 1997.
