ANTIQUE 19thC INDIAN SOLID SILVER SWAMI GOBLET, MADRAS c.1880
Antique late-19th Century Indian Colonial solid silver repousse goblet, the top band is beautifully chased and repousse' decorated depicting Hindu gods and goddesses in elaborate cartooches, applied with beaded boarders and flutted decoration. Indian silver depicting deities and religious processions are inspired by the bas-reliefs on the famous temples in southern India and is called "Swami", this style is typically from the region of Madras.
Reference Number: A9981
DESCRIPTION
Antique late-19th Century Indian Colonial solid silver repousse goblet, the top band is beautifully chased and repousse' decorated depicting Hindu gods and goddesses in elaborate cartooches, applied with beaded boarders and flutted decoration. Indian silver depicting deities and religious processions are inspired by the bas-reliefs on the famous temples in southern India and is called "Swami", this style is typically from the region of Madras.
The goblet is not hallmarked, but judging by the quality can be attributed to the famous firm P. Orr & Son (the most important silversmith firm in Colonial South India, reputed to be the largest and best appointed establishment of the kind in India). The firm was founded in 1848 by Peter Orr, a watchmaker originally from Edinburgh. It became famous as P Orr & Sons in 1863. Maharaja Gaekwar of Baroda, Maharaja Holkar and Maharaja of Cohin commissioned impressive silver pieces presented to the Prince of Wales during his visit to India (1875-76). The firm is particularly known for its "swami silver", depicting Hindu deities such as in this set. P Orr & Sons also produced impressive silver pieces in the Victorian style. As is often the case for Indian silver is unmarked, but acid tested shows a 900+ silver standard, it dates to the 1880's.
CONDITION
In Great Condition - Wear expected with age. Please refer to photographs.
SIZE
Height: 18.5 cm // 7.28 in
Width: 10.5 cm // 4.13 in
Weight: 345 g // 11.09 ozt