Bowl in the Shape of a Lotus

CAMBODIA

This gilt copper alloy bowl was used for making offerings. It is in the shape of an eight-petal lotus with soldered gold wire running along the upper edge. A central rosette with eight smaller rosettes outlined by string beads adorns the inside bottom of the bowl. The bowl and foot were produced separately and then soldered together.
The inscription on the exterior dates the bowl to the 12th century, although the exact date and location are difficult to determine. The name of the bowl in Khmer is legible and indicates that it was not produced under royal patronage. This elegant gilt copper alloy bowl is rare since most Cambodian offering instruments were made in bronze.