Product Description

Antique Holy Water Container

Material: Bronze
Style: Bali, Indonesia
Size: Height 19 cm, Width 24 cm, Depth 14 cm
Order Number: MHSAHWC1

From our book Secrets of Bali:

Balinese Hinduism is called the ‘Holy Water Religion’, Agama Tirta, which indicates the centrality of holy water in the religion. It is used in every ceremony, in every ritual, and poured over every offering, every sacrifice, every building, every rice field and every person. This sacred substance cleanses, blesses and purifies. It gets rid of evil and protects. At the end of prayers, the priest pours holy water over the person’s head. There are many varieties.

This type of teapot or kettle was not used  for tea or coffee but to store holy water. It could have been used by a high priest (pedanda) to wash his hands and feet before starting a ceremony.

The spout is a cobra, naga, the protector of springs, wells and rivers, hence bringing rain, and thus fertility.

19th – early 20th century.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).