Reflecting the everyday traditions of rural India, this antique wooden kharal bowl embodies the practical craftsmanship that supported generations of domestic and medicinal life. Hand-carved from solid wood, it was traditionally used to grind opium into a fine preparation before serving as the vessel for mixing and drinking opium-infused water, a practice associated with social gatherings, hospitality, and traditional healing in many regions. Its gently worn surface and rich patina reveal years of careful use, preserving the marks of its working history. Today, this humble yet significant vessel stands as a tangible reminder of India’s enduring folk traditions and the skilled artisans who shaped objects for both function and ritual.

Provenance

Acquired through S.A. Antiques Orient, 18 Route de Bigonville, L-8832 Rombach, Luxembourg. Provenance is supported by the original company invoice dated June 20, 2003, documenting the item’s recorded age, materials, dimensions, and purchase information