Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-037
Century-Old Raised Pedestal Brass Convalescent Bedside Platter (Tazza)
Rare century-old raised pedestal brass bedside serving tazza with scalloped pie-crust rim (Dia 11 in / 28 cm, H 6 in / 15 cm)
Century-old authentic traditional elevated pedestal brass serving platter (Dandi Thali / Ashraya Thala / Bedside Nursing Tazza), handcrafted in Odisha. Historically utilized in traditional joint family households for nursing bedridden patients, convalescents, postpartum mothers, and ailing elders. Designed to serve restorative breakfasts—fresh fruits, sprouted lentils (gaja muga), bread, butter, and healing herbal preparations—directly on the bed without requiring a separate bedside table. Features an 11-inch (28 cm) diameter circular platter with a scalloped pie-crust petal rim and engraved central floral lotus medallion, elevated upon a sturdy 6-inch (15 cm) tall central stem and a weighted bell-shaped dome pedestal base to prevent tipping and maintain hygienic elevation above bedclothes. An ingenious, humane, rare, and extinct domestic healthcare artifact.
Period
Early 20th Century (~100 years)
Dimensions
Dia: 11" / 28 cm × H: 6" / 15 cm
Provenance
Odisha traditional domestic healthcare & culinary hospitality metalcraft
Curator's Condition Assessment
Authentic century-old aged olive-brass patina with natural verdigris accents on the scalloped rim and base. Central stem, weighted bell base, and floral engraved platter are structurally solid and wobble-free. Rare and extinct.