Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-044
150-Year-Old Traditional Fluted Pumpkin Brass Kerosene Lamp (Dibi)
Exceedingly rare late 19th-century ornate brass pumpkin-form kerosene lamp with braided relief ribs, ringed collar, and dual finger-loop handle (Diameter 4.5 inches / 11 cm)
Traditional 150-year-old authentic brass kerosene oil lamp, known in Odisha folk craft and domestic ritual lighting as "Dibi" (or Kakharu Dibia / Boita Dibi), crafted circa late 19th century (~1875). Expertly cast in solid brass with an iconic fluted pumpkin (gourd/melon) reservoir profile featuring deep vertical lobed panels separated by chased braided-rope chevron relief ribs. The circular flat upper shoulder displays intricate concentric chased radial bands, leading to a tall cylindrical burner neck adorned with fine horizontal ring turnings, a fitted wick aperture collar, and a curved snuffer-nozzle spout. Fitted with an elegant solid-cast double finger-loop handle for balanced single-handed carrying across village courtyards or temple corridors. Modeled upon a flared turned pedestal disc foot for steadfast resting on ancestral prayer altars or household wall alcoves. Preserved in remarkable antique condition with natural dark olive-bronze aged patination and luminous warm brass highlights. Diameter: 4.5 inches (11 cm). An exceedingly rare, virtually extinct regional metalcraft masterpiece of utilitarian and ritual illumination.
Period
Late 19th Century (~150 years)
Dimensions
Dia: 4.5" / 11 cm
Provenance
Odisha traditional domestic lighting & folk heirloom metalcraft
Curator's Condition Assessment
Exceptional 150-year-old preservation. Fluted pumpkin reservoir, chased chevron ribs, ring-turned burner neck, curved wick spout, and double finger loops all completely intact and structurally sound. Rich natural dark antique olive-bronze patina.
