JAVANESE RARE MAJAPAHIT EMPIRE RITUAL WATER VESSEL,12-13th century. Rare patinated copper alloy repousse hanging vessel for holy water depicting Mount Meru. These vessels are intended to hold amrita, the holy nectar issuing from the churning of the ocean of milk in Hindu creation myths. Such vessels were associated with the use of sanctified water in libations. Two other examples can be found in the Victoria and Albert Museum (IS.7-1994) and the Philadelphia Museum of Art (1990-85-1a,b). Present vessel was likely modified as the water spout is not original to the artifact. - height (bronze): 8 inches; bronze with chain: 22.5 inches. Estimate $600-850
