Eating Bowl

Late 19th – early 20th century CE Origin: Kashmir Material: Copper with tin plating and black enamel The Kyenz is a traditional Kashmiri copper vessel historically used as an individual eating bowl, particularly associated with the serving and eating of rice by women. This example is distinguished by its elevated pedestal form and exceptionally dense surface decoration. The broad, rounded bowl rises from a moulded foot, giving the vessel a formal and monumental character. Its surface is covered with several distinct registers of engraving: floral and vegetal scrolls around the rim, repeating arabesque patterns below, and a dense geometric lattice across the principal body. The foot is similarly ornamented with pierced and engraved vegetal forms. The decoration demonstrates the characteristic vocabulary of Kashmiri kandkari, in which the copper surface is transformed through finely worked engraved patterns. This example relies heavily on rhythmic vegetal scrollwork and geometric patterning rather than a single dominant motif. Its pedestal base, elaborate engraving, and multiple ornamental registers suggest that this was more than a purely utilitarian eating vessel. It belongs to the tradition in which everyday Kashmiri utensils could acquire a ceremonial and heirloom character through increasingly elaborate workmanship. Private collection - Traam and Beyond

Not for Sale