Inventory no.: 4719

Repoussed Silver Burmese Bowl

SOLD

Repoussed Silver Bowl

Burma

circa 1880

diameter: 16cm, height: 11.5cm, weight: 590g

This fine silver bowl (thabeik) has been repoussed with an almost continuous scene from Burmese lore. It is unusual for the number of characters that wear Hanuman-style or demon’s masks. It also incorporates the unusual representation of a large warning drum in a stand.

The upper border comprises a chased rope twist border. The lower border is wide and incorporates repeated leaf motifs.

The base is plain and unadorned.

The shape of such bowls is based on the monk’s begging bowl, although ironically, Burmese monks are prohibited from touching gold or silver. Accordingly,

Burmese silversmiths did not use their skills on religious objects unlike silversmiths in other Buddhist lands such as Tibet or Sri Lanka.

This bowl was acquired in the UK and most probably has been in the UK since the colonial era. It is without dents, splits or repairs.

References

Fraser-Lu, S., Silverware of South-East Asia, Oxford University Press, 1989.

Fraser-Lu, S.,

Burmese Crafts: Past and Present, Oxford University Press, 1994.

Tilly, H.L.,

The Silverwork of Burma (with Photographs by P. Klier), The Superintendent, Government Printing, 1902.

Tilly, H.L.,

Modern Burmese Silverwork (with Photographs by P. Klier), The Superintendent, Government Printing, 1904.Provenance:

UK art market

Inventory no.: 4719

SOLD