Mughal Parcel-Gilt, Pierced Silver Betel Box Pandan

This rare, double-sided silver box with pierced, parcel-gilt decoration dates to to 19th century northern or central India and would have held items for betel (paan) consumption. It is a splendid example of northern Indian silversmithing. It has also been previously published.

Both the top and bottom of the box are similarly decorated with engraved and gilded bird and foliage motifs. Each is a hinged lid – one opens to reveal a shallow chamber, and the other opens to reveal a much larger chamber.

The box is pierced on all sides with pairs of oval cartouches filled with parrots, doves with puffed-up chests, and Mughal-inspired flowers.

This actual box is illustrated in Terlinden (1987, p. 142).

The box is in excellent condition. The gilding has softened to warm, golden colour, and the silver overall has a lovely patina.