Large antique brass round Urli bowl . Measures 24 x 27 inches across and 8 inches high. Excellent condition. 19th century. Antique Indian brass urlis are traditional, shallow, wide-mouthed vessels originating from Kerala and dating back to the Chola dynasty (9th-13th century). Originally used for cooking and ayurvedic medicine preparation, they evolved into decorative items for holding water and flowers in temples and homes to welcome prosperity. The term "urli" comes from the Tamil/Malayalam word for a round cooking vessel. They were central to South Indian homes, particularly in Kerala, for cooking and serving food, especially for large gatherings, due to their capacity for even heat distribution. Traditionally, artisans known as the Pathar community in Nachiarcoil, Tamil Nadu, crafted these using traditional lost-wax methods