Spittoon or Incense Burner

Art Historical Context

This intriguing brass vessel, titled *Spittoon or Incense Burn*, dates to the late 16 to early 17th century andails from the Islamic world, as showcased in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic Art Department. at a modest 9 inches (22.9 cm) high, its dual function reflects the practical ingenuity of everyday objects in Ottoman, Safavid, Mughal households, where such items served both utilitarian and ceremonial roles—spitting tobacco residue or diffusing fragrant incense during social gatherings. Crafted by an unknown artisan, the piece exemplifies masterful metalworking techniques of the e...