North Indian Silver Rosewater Sprinkler

This fine silver rosewater sprinkler is of solid, chased and pierced silver.

It sits on a pierced, domed, oval foot that is decorated with spiky leaf motifs. The body is of flattened, tear-shaped form which narrows as it rises. The body is chased on both sides in relief with a pair of prancing male lions between a ginger flower motif. The underside of the body is plain but then decorated with a central floral garland.

The shoulders are chased in high relief with leaf motifs. From the body rises a long, narrowing neck decorated with leafy chevrons to indicate water flow. The head of the sprinkler through which the scented water is emitted is presented as a bunch of flowers.

Such sprinklers were used in India at important ceremonies such as weddings. They were also used to scent rooms, and were offered to guests as they arrived at an important home so that they might freshen up after a journey.

Overall, this sprinkler is decorative and sculptural. The silverwork is fine and the sprinkler sits solidly without rocking.