Ancient Khmer Bronze Vase - 22 cm

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Betel ritual vase (or lime pot) in the pear shape of Khmer culture
Bayon period, 12th – 13th century
Bronze with a dark patina
Height: 22 cm Diameter: 13 cm

An important ritual bronze vessel presenting a pyriform silhouette (pear-shaped), notably balanced and stocky, characteristic of the prestige metalwork of the Bayon era.

The object consists of two distinct horizontal sections that fit together perfectly along the midline of the bulb.
The upper part stretches into a concave narrowed neck, which elegantly flares to a corolla lip (or trumpet-flared), highlighted by fine circular mouldings at the base of the neck. The whole rests on a circular flared pedestal with stepped mouldings.

This type of vase of substantial dimensions was mainly intended for storing ingredients needed to prepare betel quid (notably lime), or to hold oils and sacred waters during court ceremonies or religious rites of the Khmer Empire.

During the Bayon period, under the reign of Jayavarman VII, bronze objects destined for the aristocracy and for Buddhist or Hindu clergy adopted clean, robust forms, prioritizing purity of lines over decorative excess.

Condition:
Excellent overall condition. The object shows a deep excavation patina, a dark brown to black sheen, sprinkled with green oxide concretions and natural earthy deposits that highlight the piece’s age and authenticity. The overall structure is intact, the interlocking joints are well preserved despite a crack on the belly.

Provenance: Kanaka The Collection since 2021

Shipped with UPS and insured