Sumatran Minangkabau Brass Ewer (Kendi)

This particularly handsome water kettle, ewer or kendi is a fine  example of Minangkabau brassware cast using the lost wax process. It has a rectangular, eight-sided body that sits on a raised platform with four small, zoomorphic feet. A slightly-domed, rectangular lid fits into the top of the base. A hollow handle rises over the lid and this too is fitted with a small hinged lid so that the vessel can also be filled from here. A prominent spout rises from the body and this has a slight ‘S’ shape.

The vessel is decorated all over in relief with bands of stylised orchid motifs.

A related vessel is in the National Museum of Singapore and illustrated in Singh (1985, p. 14).

Vessels such as this were cast by brass casters belonging to the matrilineal Muslim Minangkabau people of the southern highlands of Sumatra. They were used locally and also exported to Malay and Minangkabau communities on the Malay Peninsula. They were used to hold and serve drinking water. Water storage vessels were important among the Malays – drinking water tended not to be boiled first but allowed to stand for a few days. Allowing the water to stand was felt to purify it. Certainly it allowed any sediment to settle. Such vessels could also be used to hold water used for handwashing prior to, and after, eating.

This example is in fine condition. It has a splendid patina and wonderful, decorative presence.