Help with IDing these bowls and do I clean them?

Hello kind antiquers! I once again have acquired neat items that are out of my usual collecting wheelhouse.

I think these are copper bowls but unsure of age and origin. I know patina is good but these are really covered--do I clean them up? I gave a quick wash in water only. Any help appreciated!

I wasn't expecting to find such cool old bowls among a small auction lot I bought that was mostly of pottery (but there were other full lots of antique copper at this estate sale).

 

Silver plated thats been polished off.

 

Oh bummer. I can see that now! Thanks for your help.

 

Looks like they are/were tinned copper bowls from West or South Asia.

 

Interesting! Is it the etching on the rim that indicates Asian origin? Should I try polishing them or are they valueless so don't bother? I mostly collect wood, paintings, and pottery, so these bowls are unfamiliar. I love learning about everything though, hence all the questions!

 

It was actually the tinned copper look.
And there are those hammered indentations, which are often seen on West and South Asian household items.

Are you sure the rims are etched? They look stamped, or maybe engraved. Etching requires some sort of acid, and I don't expect that on pieces like this.

 

Okay, thanks for explaining. And yes, "etching" is the wrong word to use. Given the feel, I think they are stamped.

 

Look for "tinned copper bowl" on ebay etc. They aren't worth a huge sum, but maybe more than you'd expect.

Forgot to say, they don't need much cleaning other than the quick wash you gave them. They are supposed to look like this.

 

Thank you so much for your insight! I think the bowls are lovely, especially when they catch the sun. A really nice bonus find for me

 

Always learning on here ! I wouldnt have looked at them twice . Now I would !

 

Right!? I was 50/50 on whether they were something worth asking about. Love this site. I have learned so much!

 

It is always good to ask, the world is full of hidden treasures.