Fine Kashmiri Silverwork · Dense Foliate Coriander Pattern · 84 Grams
A finely decorated Anglo-Indian solid silver card case, produced in Kashmir circa 1880, displaying exceptionally detailed hand-chased decoration characteristic of the celebrated Kashmiri silver workshops of the later Victorian period.
The case is of rectangular form with a pull-off lid and is richly ornamented across both front and rear panels with dense scrolling foliate decoration in the classic Kashmiri coriander pattern. The surface is filled with finely chased curling stems, clustered leaves, and flowing arabesque foliage which form a continuous ornamental field across the silver.
The craftsmanship is particularly notable for the depth and precision of the chasing. Each leaf and tendril is carefully worked in relief against a finely textured ground, creating a lively play of light across the surface. The scrolling vegetal forms interlace across the panels in a rhythmic and balanced composition typical of high-quality Kashmir workshop silver.
The sides and edges are also decorated, chased with continuous bands of scrolling ornament that frame the principal panels and maintain the intricate decorative character around the entire object. The pull-off lid repeats the same dense foliate decoration so that the whole case forms a unified decorative composition.
Card cases of this type were produced in Kashmir during the nineteenth century for the Anglo-Indian market and for export to Britain, where the finely worked surfaces and richly textured chasing became highly admired by collectors of Oriental and colonial silver.
The present example is an especially attractive specimen, combining excellent surface detail, elegant proportions, and refined decorative workmanship.
Material: Solid silver
Weight: 84 grams
Dimensions: 9.6 cm × 6.7 cm
Form: Rectangular card case with pull-off lid
Decoration: Intricately chased Kashmiri coriander-pattern foliage and scrolling ornament
Very Good antique condition. The silver retains strong definition to the chased decoration with only light signs of age and handling. Please examine the gallery images closely and feel free to request a more detailed condition report if required.
From the Stewart Collection of Indian and Burmese silver.
N.B. The mirror shown in one photograph is used for display purposes only and is not included with the card case.