Antique Brass Kajrauta Kohl Holder India | Vintage Kajal Applicator | Traditional Indian Eye Cosmetic Tool
Long before the modern cosmetics industry existed, Indian women kept their kohl (kajal) in beautifully crafted brass kajrauta holders like this one. This antique example is a complete, functioning piece: a hinged clamshell-form body opens on a single iron pin rivet to reveal the hollowed interior reservoir where kohl paste was stored, while the integrated applicator rod extends from one end, its tip finished with a graduated bead terminal for precise eye application. The opposite end carries a twisted wire hanging loop, allowing the kajrauta to be suspended from a dressing cord or belt in traditional fashion.
The exterior of the body is incised all over with a fine crosshatch diamond lattice pattern framed by raised longitudinal ribs — hand-worked decoration typical of regional Indian brasswork. The interior face of the lower shell retains traces of original red lacquer or pigment (possibly vermillion), a vivid reminder of genuine working age. Dark oxidized patina covers the entire surface, deepened by decades of handling.
A rare and complete example of everyday antique Indian domestic craft — as much ethnographic artifact as decorative object.
Details:
- Measurements: 6.2″ length; 1.1″ width
- Weight: 1.7 oz
- Origin: India