Aftab - Mughal ewer

Aftab - Mughal ewer

North India, early 19th century

In cast and chased brass, the globular-shaped body on a flared pedestal, with a straight spout and serpentine handle ending in a bud, decorated with ribbing animated by interlaced arabesques. The ewer is topped by a high-domed hinged lid with a lotus bud finial. H. 29 cm Mughal ewers (aftabs) originated in Persia and the Middle East, and were imported to India in the early 14th century. One of the most remarkable features is the balance between the body and the long spout, which ensures stability and precise pouring, as the ewer would be extremely heavy once filled with water. References For a similar example, see Griggs' "Jounal of Indian Art", pl. 113. An engraved Mughal brass ewer, North India, 19th century, of globular form on a splayed foot, with straight spout and curved handle terminating in a bud, the ribbed body with design of arabesques.