The design of this rose water flask is typical of items produced in the Middle East in the 19th century.

According to Anne Fairbairn, the grand daughter of Reid, this flask was one of several items acquired by Reid in 1914-15 while visiting Australian troops in Egypt.

Rose water flask (in two parts), belonging to Sir George Reid, brass, Middle East, [1890-1915]
Brass flask with a high foot that tapers into the base of a bulbous body, which after swelling outwards tapers into a narrow neck. The foot and body of the base have been decorated with a stylised leaf design made from stamps impressed in the metal. Horizontal parallel lines encircle the upper body and foot. The long, tapering, pouring neck screws into the base section. The neck tapers from the base to the top and is surmounted by a small hat. The neck is divided into five sections by horizontal bands, each decorated with the leaf design. There are three small pouring holes around the outside of the hat. The long, pouring neck and stopper are typical of Middle Eastern rose water flasks. The decorative pattern is different to that of the coffee pot also in this collection.
(-1) Flask base
(-2) Flask neck

Designer: unknown; Middle East

Maker: unknown; 1890 - 1915


User: Reid, George; Australia

Owner: Reid, George; Australia

97/232/12

355 mm

90 mm