Globular huqqa base

CultureIndian

Date17th century

MediumBidri zinc alloy inlaid with silver and brass

DimensionsOverall: 7 1/2 × 6 × 6 inches (19.05 × 15.24 × 15.24 cm)

Credit LinePurchase: acquired through the generosity of the Foyer Foundation

Object number2024.35

On View

Not on view

Collections

South and Southeast Asian Art

Terms

DescriptionThis object is the base of a huqqa, or water pipe. It is an example of bidri work, made in Bidar, India. It is made from a zinc alloy that is inlaid with silver and brass and treated with a coating that blackens the surface.

This object is thickly cast with a heavy, globular body. The neck of the huqqa is divided into two sections, the bottom section is short, and is decorated by a ring with v-shaped striations capped by a wide flaring lip. The upper section comprises of a low cylindrical neck extending upwards, crowed with a slightly flaring lip. The entire surface of the vessel is decorated with inlaid silver and brass designs that form repeating patterns: peacock-feather fans (morchals) on the body, created with lines of silver heart-shaped emblems forming the plumes, held in brass handles, and a circular ring of alternating flowers and stems at the shoulder of the huqqa.

This fan pattern is unusual, but may derive from repeated patterns found in textile designs. For example, a seventeenth century patka in the V&A collection includes both repeating fan-shaped patterns and borders of alternating blossoms and stems in its borders and end pieces. (V&A IM.26-1936.)

Information about a particular artwork or image, including provenance information, is based upon historic information and may not be currently accurate or complete. Research on artwork and images is an ongoing process, and the information about a particular artwork or image may not reflect the most current information available to the Museum. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about a particular artwork or image, please e-mail provenance@nelson-atkins.org.