ANTIQUE 19THC INDIAN SOLID SILVER SWAMI TEA SET, P. ORR MANNER, MADRAS C.1880

DESCRIPTION

Antique 19th Century Indian Colonial Solid Silver repousse three-piece tea set, comprising of teapot, sugar bowl and cream jug, each oval body is profusely and beautifully repousse' decorated with a religious processions with men carrying idols, the teapot's spout is modelled like an elephant's head.

Indian silver depicting deities and religious processions is inspired by the bas-reliefs on the famous temples in southern India and is called "Swami" (see Wilkinson). This style is typically from Madras and it closely reminds the work of the famous firm P. Orr & Sons (the most important silversmithing 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. P Orr & Sons also produced impressive silver pieces in the Victorian style, please follow this link to Victoria & Albert Museum in London).

As often the case for Indian silver the set is unmarked, but acid tested shows a 900+ silver standard, it dates to 1880's. 

CONDITION

In Great Condition - no damage, just general wear.

TEAPOT

Height: 13cm
Width: 21.8 x 8cm

SUGAR BOWL

Height: 9cm
Width: 15.5 x 7cm

CREAM JUG

Height: 8cm
Width: 12.7 x 6cm

TOTAL WEIGHT: 860g