Indian Bronze Makara Aftaba, 1850s

Details

Description

Dating from around 1850, this monumental Indian bronze aftaba functions as a sculptural object as much as a vessel. Its … Read more Dating from around 1850, this monumental Indian bronze aftaba functions as a sculptural object as much as a vessel. Its generous scale, dramatic silhouette and untouched patina make it a strong focal point for a curated interior.

A heavily cast, rounded body stands on a lotus-petal base and rises into a tall neck with fluted, domed lid on its original hinged pin. One side carries a long, sweeping spout ending in a stylised animal head; the other is anchored by a fully modelled makara handle, the mythological water creature of Indian art, gripping the lid finial in its jaws. The interplay between the static central volume and these zoomorphic elements creates a dynamic profile on a console, plinth or mantel.

The surface is densely hand engraved with scrolling foliage, palmettes and geometric bands. Under light, the graver cuts catch against a deep brown-black and green patina developed over many decades, with mineral deposits in recesses and around the foot. The underside retains rough sand-cast texture and minor casting flaws, reinforcing its mid-19th-century origin rather than modern manufacture.


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 excellent and visually very coherent. The hinge operates correctly. There is an old hard-solder / weld repair at the junction where the handle meets the body, long patinated and completely secure, and a small historic chip to the tail fin. No further repairs, no cracks, no modern polishing or artificial patina; wear is confined to natural contact points and enhances the overall character. See less