Cutch Kutch Silver Claret Jug, India

Chased Silver Claret Jug

This tall, surprisingly-heavy claret jug of solid silver is finely chased all over with Islamic-inspired scrolling leaf and flower patterns against a finely tooled background that is typical of colonial Kutch silver work of the second half of the nineteenth century. A blank armorial cartouche is to one side of the ewer.

The ewer is of narrow, baluster form and stands on a wide, flared, domed foot. The stem that rises from the foot is surmounted by a delicate foliate fringe or collar.

The neck rises to an undulating mouth covered with a hinged, domed lid that is by a solid-cast silver model of a caparisoned elephant. The solid-cast handle is of leafy, rococo form and chased with Kutch floral scrollwork.

The ewer has no obvious maker’s marks. It is in excellent condition. It is heavy in the hand, and sits in a stable fashion.

Overall, this is an impressive and showy example of colonial Indian Kutch silver work. It is in excellent condition and sits firmly and evenly.

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

Wilkinson, W.R.T.,

Indian Silver 1858-1947, 1999.

UK art market