Huqqa Base
Artist
Mughal period
Dateabout 1750
Mediumglass painted with gold
Dimensions18.4 x 16.5 cm (7 1/4 x 6 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsGlass
Credit LineIslamic Rug Fund
Object number1989.112
Label TextAt the beginning of the seventeenth century, tobacco smoking became the favoirte passtime at the Mughal court. Indian smokers enjoyed aromatic tobaccos in which spices, perfumes, and molasses syrup were blended. The huqqa (water container), an important element of the cool-smoking water pipe used in India, was frequently transformed into a work of art.
The present huqqah has the thick walls and characteristic bubbles of most Mughal glass. It is decorated with an unusual overall pattern of peacock feathers; the raised outlines and incised interior markings are highlighted in gold. This decoration, while uncommon, can be found on several unpublished glass huqqahs of approximately the same date; and it can also be found on an 18th century metal ball shape huqqah in the bidri technique.ProvenancePurchase from Terence McInerney, NYOn View
On viewCurrent Location
- Exhibition Location Gallery 106
