A GROUP OF THREE ROSEWATER BOTTLES. A: Probably Syria, ca. 1800; B: India, early 19th century. C: China, early 20th century.

A: Reeded flared round base, slightly raised at edge, supports narrow band which holds round central section whose lower portion is engraved with floral motifs, and whose surface is reeded in slightly twisted bands. A separate collar with seven descending leaves overlays the top; above, tapered stem rises to acorn finial. No marks found. H: 345mm. Previously repaired. B: Oval tiered base and bottle, overal embossed and chased with foliate motifs and elephants inside tear-shaped raised panel at either side; twisted shaft rises to floral finial with domed top. No marks found. H: 275mm. Previously repaired. C: Ring base, slightly flattened round bowl, tapered shaft with one knob, flat ring beneath floral finial. Overall chased floral decoration. Marked on base. H: 145mm.

In the Sephardi tradition, rosewater was used as a sweet-smelling substance during Habdalah, or sprinkled on the celebrants at a ceremony of passage such as Bar Mitzvah or Wedding SEE ILLUSTRATION