Antique Nepalese Bronze Ritual Ewer Anti 18th Century Nepal

Antique, 18th century, Nepalese bronze ritual ewer, known as an Anti, Rising from flared foot through a bulbous body to a tapering neck with pronounced collar and rounded mouth, with separate hinged domed lid, surmounted by a perching bird, the curved faceted spout issuing from a collared head of a makara. 
 
Makara beings are Mythical sea dragons that balance the universe on their backs as they move through the cosmic ocean, in Indian-Tibetan cosmology. 
 
 
 Ewers, such as this one, were used in Nepal to serve raksi (fermented alcohol) during a religious ceremony of worship of various deities, or for honoring distinguished visitors. The raksi is decanted into a small cup known as a “kholcha” or “patra ailakhola”. 

 
 
MEASUREMENTS: Height: 26 cm (10.24 inches). 

 
CONDITION: In its good original condition, showing the age and usage, with a pleasing patina. No repairs or restorations.