Description
The Box is of a rectangular shape, each side of the wooden box including the interiors are covered and lined with silk velvet fabric, the exterior sides including the lid are also decorated and mounted by additional separate beautifully worked sheets of parcel-gilt repousse silver, all fitted on the body of the box with metal pins.
The exterior decoration consists of various mythological Hindu scenes, deities, angels Tiger heads, floral sprays including two different royal coats of arms, this is possibly of both the bride and the groom’s or it may well be as a symbol of the unity between two important royal Indian families.
For additional security, the box is designed with a very cleaver locking mechanism and fitted with two almost invisible buttons, to secure a safe opening to the lid without causing any damages, the two buttons has to be pressed simultaneously.
Condition: Very Good, the top of the lid has probably a missing object, some small dents and tear and wear.
Dimensions:
26 cm height.
28.1 cm width.
20 cm depth.
References: For similar style and technique please see the gold and sandalwood address casket that was presented to Prince Albert The Prince of Wales by the inhabitants of Madura (Madurai) in Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, India, circa 1875.
Splendours of the Subcontinent, A Prince’s Tour Of India 1875-6, by Kajal Meghani, Royal Collection Trust, ISBN 978 1 909741 423, 2017, Lot exhibited in page 68 & 69.
SOLD