Colonial Indian Silver Kettle

Chased Silver Kettle, Burner & Stand

Kutch India

circa 1870

height: 36cm, width: 24cm, weight: 1,575g

This spirit kettle with a stand and burner, all in unmarked, solid silver, is from Cutch. It is remarkably rare – no other example of a Cutch-made spirit kettle set is known. Nineteenth century Chinese export silver examples made for the European market in Canton and Shanghai are well known however. But this example appears to be a one-off, perhaps having been commissioned. The form of the teapot suggests that the maker based it on a Chinese export silver example rather than on a European-made prototype.

It comprises the teapot with a prominent handle, the stand and base, and a round burner that sits in the stand. Two silver chains with pins secure the teapot to the stand. These are intact, complete and function well.

The teapot, handle, and burner are all chased with typically Islamic-inspired Cutch foliage and floral scrollwork. That on the body of the teapot is interspersed with a variety of birds. The legs of the stand are chased with acanthus leaf patterning.

The stand sits in an even, stable fashion on four feet. The hinged teapot lid which has a rounded, tiered finial, fits within the well of the teapot very snugly.

The set is in excellent condition – there are no significant dents, losses, splits or repairs.

References

Dehejia, V., Delight in Design: Indian Silver for the Raj, Mapin, 2008.

Inventory no.: 1699

SOLD