Antique Malay Bronze Kettle, Malaysia – 19th Century
Antique Malay Bronze Kettle, Malaysia – 19th Century
£3,400.00
Description
This impressive and heavy bronze kettle with a removable lid and hinged handle.
Cast figures of people and animals ornament the wide rim around the body. The figures include dogs, lions and mythical creatures. Each figure has first been cast and then attached to the kettle.
Two warriors on either side of the rim, each in special garb and carrying a large sword.
Two identical humans with demonic faces support the handle. A lizard is carved on the top of the handle and the sides of the handle are spiked.
A similar kettle, within the collection of the National Museum of Singapore, is illustrated in ‘Malay Brassware‘ by Baldev Singh, and attributed to Sabah in East Malaysia. Another kettle, also within the Asian Civilization Museum collection, is attributed to Brunei (04066). These differ from our kettle in that the cast figures are smaller.
Brass vessels were symbols of high social status and used on special occasions. Ornamented brass kettles were used during weddings and festivals to serve drinking water. As treasured items, they were handed down from generation to generation.
Singh, Baldev. Malay brassware. Singapore: National Museum, 1985.
| item details | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Asian |
| Period | 19th Century |
| Style | Other |
| Condition | Excellent |
| Dimensions | Height: 32 cms, Width: 38 cms |
Product REF: 10031
