Monumental Indian bronze aftaba with makara handle, c. 1850
£6,000.00
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This monumental Indian bronze aftaba (ewer) dates from around 1850 and is a true statement piece for a curated interior. Heavily cast and fully hand worked, it combines bold architecture with rich engraved ornament and a dramatic zoomorphic handle.
The rounded body stands on a lotus-petal base and rises into a tall neck with a fluted domed lid on its original hinge. A long S-shaped spout ends in an animal head, while the opposing handle is cast as a makara, the mythical river creature of Indian art, biting the finial of the lid. From the side, the composition reads almost like a bronze sculpture when placed on a console or plinth.
The surface is densely hand engraved with foliate and geometric bands. Under close inspection the graver lines show subtle variation and tiny chatter marks, confirming hand work rather than machine duplication. The underside of the foot retains rough casting texture and small flaws typical of mid-19th-century sand casting. The patina is a deep brown-black with green highlights and mineral deposits that collectors value.
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Measurements
• Height approx. 50 cm (19.7″)
• Span spout to handle approx. 54 cm (21.3″)
• Maximum body diameter approx. 27 cm (10.6″)
• Weight approx. 9.92 kg
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Condition
Structurally strong and very honest. The original hinge works correctly. At the junction where the handle meets the body there is an old hard-solder / weld area, fully patinated and secure, and there is a small old chip on the tail fin. No other repairs, no modern polishing or artificial colouring; wear to the patina and engraving is limited to natural high points and gives the piece real character.
⸻
Shipping & Packaging
Shipped fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling, and secure postage.
Packed using recycled materials where possible.
Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.
Monumental Indian bronze aftaba with makara handle, c. 1850
£6,000.00
The rounded body stands on a lotus-petal base and rises into a tall neck with a fluted domed lid on its original hinge. A long S-shaped spout ends in an animal head, while the opposing handle is cast as a makara, the mythical river creature of Indian art, biting the finial of the lid. From the side, the composition reads almost like a bronze sculpture when placed on a console or plinth.
The surface is densely hand engraved with foliate and geometric bands. Under close inspection the graver lines show subtle variation and tiny chatter marks, confirming hand work rather than machine duplication. The underside of the foot retains rough casting texture and small flaws typical of mid-19th-century sand casting. The patina is a deep brown-black with green highlights and mineral deposits that collectors value.
⸻
Measurements
• Height approx. 50 cm (19.7″)
• Span spout to handle approx. 54 cm (21.3″)
• Maximum body diameter approx. 27 cm (10.6″)
• Weight approx. 9.92 kg
⸻
Condition
Structurally strong and very honest. The original hinge works correctly. At the junction where the handle meets the body there is an old hard-solder / weld area, fully patinated and secure, and there is a small old chip on the tail fin. No other repairs, no modern polishing or artificial colouring; wear to the patina and engraving is limited to natural high points and gives the piece real character.
⸻
Shipping & Packaging
Shipped fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling, and secure postage.
Packed using recycled materials where possible.
Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.