Superb Lucknow, Tall, Parcel-Gilt Silver Ewer

This elegant, tall silver and gilt ewer has a wide, flattened, spherical base which sits on a low ring foot; a tall neck that narrows and then widens to a wide mouth, and a prominent ‘S’-shaped handle. The mouth is ribbed, undulating and gilded.  It is beautifully conceived and in the form of a calla lily bloom. The gilding extends to the tight curl which supports the handle, at the back of the mouth.

The top of the base is wonderfully chased with acanthus leaves, against a fine, coriander flower and leaf (dhaniya) pattern ground, which extends up the neck.

The companion piece to this is in the Victoria & Albert Museum, and until recently was on permanent display in the Indian Galleries (now closed for refurbishment). That example is illustrated in Guy & Swallow (1990, p. 240).

The V&A acquired their example at the Paris Exhibition of 1867 and it is likely that ewer here is by the same maker and also was acquired from the same Exhibition.

The example here is in excellent condition. The ewer is heavy in the hand. The gilding has softened to a beautiful hue. This is an outstanding example of Lucknow silversmithing.

 

Above: a calla lily bloom, and the ewer’s mouth