Eating Bowl

18th - early 19th century Origin: Kashmir Material: Tinned copper This vessel is a particularly early and heavily used example of Kashmiri utensils. The Kyenz was traditionally used as an individual eating bowl, particularly by women. Unlike later Kashmiri copperware, where engraving is often sharper, finer and more regular, the ornament here has a deeper, almost sculpted quality. The floral bands are uneven in execution and have been partially obscured by generations of wear, creating a dense surface in which decoration and patina have become inseparable. Curiously, something remains concealed within the hollow pedestal, producing a soft ringing sound when the vessel is moved. Its nature is impossible to know without opening the base; for now, it remains a small secret held within the object, heard but unseen. Private collection: Trām and Beyond

Not for Sale