Unusual Hinge Lidded Egg Shaped Cast Iron Pot

While hunting for Celtic jewellery yesterday - that's what I usually buy and sell - I came across an unusual pot and I'm hoping someone can tell me something about it (age, purpose, etc). The pot is made of cast iron and measures approximately 6 inches tall. It is beautifully decorated on the sides and features what I believe is a peacock on the lid, but the join for the two pieces of cast iron is very crude. It's quite heavy for its size at around 610g. Photographs below. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

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Hi RobH!

Welcome to Antiquers..............

I can't help, but perhaps @Any Jewelry can...............

 

Hi Rob,
Looks like a peacock for the lid. I am getting an INDIA vibe.
greg

 

Welcome Rob. Great photos.
It is an Indian cosmetics jar. With a peacock lid, as Greg said. Indian items to do with beauty often have a peacock on the lid.
There isn't much wear on the feet, so I would guess mid-20th century at the earliest. It is charming.

 

Thanks for the replies and the welcomes.

My wife will be particularly pleased when I tell her - she thought it was an Indian pot used for henna dye, so she's in the right area. It's definitely not a piece that will be going to auction/ebay - we've both fallen in love with it and now we know its purpose it will have a home on my wife's dressing table.

 

Oh, wonderful, that is where it belongs. I hope it will bring her joy every time she looks at it.