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Near pair of Chinese blue and white rosewater sprinklers.
Kangxi (1662-1722).
With knops to the baluster necks, decorated to the bulbous bodies with four ogee-shaped panels containing lotus heads and scrolling foliage.
The spreading foot rims and lower necks are decorated with lozenge pattern, the thin upper necks decorated with delicate floral sprays below hatch-pattern bands to the rims.
It is very likely that these sprinklers were export items for the Islamic world, where rosewater is traditionally used both in everyday life and to mark special religious ceremonies.
Traditionally, the right hand is used to eat, and so sprinklers filled with scented water would be provided in order to wash the hands before and after eating.
Sprinklers filled with cool, scented rosewater would also be provided to guests upon their arrival at a house in order to freshen up. The more lavish the sprinkler, which may be made out of copper, silver, gold or porcelain, the wealthier the household.
The consequent association of these items with a warm welcome to the household means that pairs of rosewater sprinklers are a popular choice of wedding present. Historically, they have also been given as ambassadorial gifts as symbols of goodwill and hospitality.
Dimensions
Height: 19.5cm. (7 5/8 in.) and 19.2cm. (7 9/16in.).Condition report
Good; the smaller with slight discoloration to foot and tiny firing fault.Stock number
W470The BADA Standard
- Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
- Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
- Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
- Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
- Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees