Not on display

Lota

ca. 1883 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Lota, or water vessel, tinned and chased and inlaid with lac.

Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Tinned and chased brass
Brief description
Lota, tinned and chased brass, Moradabad, c. 1880
Physical description
Lota, or water vessel, tinned and chased and inlaid with lac.
Dimensions
  • Height: 3.5in
  • Diameter: 4in
Historical context
The lota, a traditional Indian water jug, is used as a general term for water containers but there are also regional names for different types of pots. The basic design of the lota was adapted to perform many related functions: holding, carrying, and pouring water. The form, decoration, size and material reflect the function of the pot, the geographical area in which it was produced and the status of the people for whom it was made. The shape itself is derived from natural forms such as the gourd and the melon. Different types of pots are used to carry water from the well for everyday use, to store water, to drink water from and for daily ablutions. They are also used as containers for sacred water or water that is to be used for ritual purposes.
Collection
Accession number
IS.932-1883

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdMarch 12, 2003
Record URL
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest