18th-Century Hammered Brass Lotus Urli

Large Ritual Water Vessel | Handcrafted in India | Sacred Lotus Petal Form

✦ A Masterpiece of Indian Metalwork

This monumental hammered brass urli from the 18th century embodies the sacred artistry of India’s ritual vessels. Shaped in the form of an open lotus—a symbol of purity, prosperity, and divine order—it would once have held water, flowers, or oil lamps during ceremonial worship. Today, it serves as both a functional artefact and a commanding statement piece for luxury interiors, heritage restorations, or museum displays.

✦ Design & Provenance

Expertly hammered from solid brass, the vessel’s rounded walls are articulated into gently scalloped lotus petals, each subtly irregular, bearing the unmistakable hand of its maker. Its deep interior and wide mouth made it ideal for floating floral offerings or as a centrepiece in temple rituals.

Originating from temple towns in India, such urlis were often donated by wealthy patrons or royal households, becoming integral to religious life and enduring symbols of devotion across generations.

✦ Key Features

• Date: 18th Century

• Origin: India

• Material: Solid Brass

• Form: Lotus-inspired walls with scalloped rim

• Finish: Naturally aged brass patina with hammered texture

• Condition: Exceptional for age, with light wear consistent with ritual use

✦ Dimensions

• Height: 50 cm

• Diameter: 100 cm

• Weight: 25 kg

✦ Cultural & Historical Context

The lotus holds central importance in Hindu cosmology and iconography:

• Lakshmi – Goddess of wealth and prosperity, seated on a lotus bloom

• Vishnu – Preserver of the universe, bearing a lotus as a sign of cosmic balance

• Brahma – Creator god, emerging from a lotus at the dawn of time

This urli’s lotus form thus carried both aesthetic and sacred meaning, making it revered in temples as an object of worship as much as beauty.

✦ Styling Tip

Place in a grand foyer, under a veranda, or in a courtyard with floating marigolds, rose petals, or tea lights to create a serene welcome. In contemporary settings, elevate it on a low plinth as a standalone sculptural centrepiece—a perfect dialogue between antiquity and modernity.

✦ Why This Piece Is Exceptional

✔ Rare 18th-century temple vessel in complete lotus form
✔ Monumental in scale – suitable for architecture, landscapes, or galleries
✔ Authentic aged patina with hand-hammered detailing
✔ Symbolically rich – rooted in Hindu sacred traditions

✦ Delivery & Collection

Due to its weight and scale, this urli will be professionally handled and delivered across the UK. Local collection can be arranged by appointment. For international delivery or installation support, please contact Regen Bespoke.

Exclusively at Regen Bespoke – Where sacred heritage meets timeless design. Own an artefact that bridges ritual, symbolism, and artistry.