Indian Silver Mango Cosmetics or Tilaka Powder Box

This charming silver mango was almost certainly intended for a woman and was meant to hold cosmetics and probably tilaka powder, the sacred, finely ground powder used in Hindu rituals and daily prayers to a apply a mark to the forehead.

The mango opens and has a two compartments separated by a hinged divider.

It is suspended from a short silver chain.

Traditionally, mango form pendants and other jewellery were seen as fertility amulets – mangoes being symbolic of fertility.

The example here is in fine condition. The hinges are intact and the the two sides come together well so that the box closes perfectly.