- Title
- Vase
- Date Made
- 18th century
- Medium
- Silver top; brass body with gilt filigree inset with gemstones
- Dimensions
- 7 1/2 x 4 in. (19.05 x 10.16 cm)
- Accession Number
- M.89.101.2
- Curatorial Notes
This ornate vase likely served a ritual function as a sacred vessel for holy water in which the priest uses the consecrated water to wash away negative energy and bless the worshippers and physical spaces.
The exquisite gilt filigree inset with gemstones embellishing the surface of this brass pedestal vase with a silver flaring mouth is the hallmark of a Newari metalsmith, a member of the chief historical and cultural ethnicity in Nepal that was renowned for its fine filigree metalworking. The inset gemstones include foil-backed rubies, turquoise, coral, and rock crystal. The gemstones have been ingeniously arranged to form stylized apotropaic motifs known as the Indian "Face of Glory" (kirttimukha). Called Cheppu or Chhepu in Newari folklore, he is a revered mythical protector and the elder brother of the sunbird Garuda who is represented as a serpent-devouring disembodied face.
See also AC1998.136.1 and M.2003.20
