Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-031
Century-Old Hand-Engraved Brass Bridal Dowry Vermilion Casket (Sindoor Kauta)
Exquisite century-old sacred brass bridal vermilion casket with crown finial (H 5 in / 12.5 cm, Dia 3.5 in / 9 cm)
Century-old authentic traditional engraved brass sindoor (vermilion) container (Sindoor Kauta / Sindoor Peti), intricately handcrafted in Odisha. Historically presented by parents to their daughter as an essential sacred item of her bridal trousseau (Jautuka / Stridhan) during her marriage ceremony. Features a spherical globular casket resting upon an elevated circular pedestal foot, secured with authentic coiled barrel-hinge clasps at the waist. The dome is embellished with radiating fluted petal ribs and cross-hatched basketweave equatorial friezes, surmounted by an elaborate perforated paisley-kalasa crown finial with arched side struts. Revered as an enduring symbol of marital sanctity (Saubhagyabati), blessing, and auspicious domestic prosperity. Handcrafted antique brass heirloom, now extinct and rare.
Period
Early 20th Century (~100 years)
Dimensions
Dia: 8.5 cm × H: 12 cm
Provenance
Odisha traditional bridal trousseau & ritual metalcraft
Curator's Condition Assessment
Exceptional century-old authentic patina with aged verdigris in the recessed engravings. Hinge loops, crown finial, and pedestal base structurally sound and complete. Rare and extinct.
