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Silver Gilt Kutch Flask

This ornate flask is from the Kutch region, which is renowned for its exquisite silver craftsmanship. Kutch silverwork is characterised by its intricate designs and the technique of répoussé, a form of metalworking that involves shaping the metal by hammering from the reverse side to create a design in low relief.

In the context of Mughal artifacts, the term “Mughal” refers to the style that was prevalent during the Mughal Empire, which ruled most of the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th to the mid-18th century. The Mughal era was known for its remarkable contributions to art, architecture, and culture, and it significantly influenced local crafts, including metalwork.

The répoussé technique used in this flask allowed for deep, precise patterns that were further enhanced by chasing, a method used to refine the design on the front of the piece by finishing the silver. The raised areas of ornament are combined with flat polished silver for maximum contrast. The combination of these techniques results in the deeply incised foliate designs seen on the flask, which are typical of the luxurious and intricate aesthetic of Mughal-era decorative arts.

Gilding, the process of applying a thin layer of gold, was added to this flask to increase its opulence and visual appeal. This technique was often used in the decorative arts to give silver objects the appearance of solid gold, enhancing their prestige and value.

The flask’s thick gauge, or the thickness of the silver sheet used, allowed for more substantial and pronounced designs. After the crafting process, the resin that was used to support the metal during the hammering and shaping was removed by heating, which would cause the resin to melt or soften so it could be taken out, leaving the hollow but intricately designed flask.

With a height of 40cm and a diameter of 16cm, this flask is a sizable piece, indicating it was likely a showpiece meant for display rather than everyday use. Its fine craftsmanship and rich decoration suggest that it was made for a wealthy client or perhaps as a ceremonial object.

The flask’s design, technique, and embellishments are representative of the high level of skill and artistry in the Kutch region, making it a valuable piece both historically and artistically.

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An Exceptional Indian Kutch Silver gilt Répoussé Flask

Stock Number: 9743

A fine Kutch silver répoussé, chased and gilt flask and cover, the heavy thick gauge Indian Mughal silver work is typical of the finest work from the Kutch region of India. The technique was developed to allow deep precise répoussé work. Starting from a flat sheet worked from the back and finished by filling the flask with a resin, the silversmith was able to achieve these striking deeply incised foliate designs. When finished the flask was heated and the resin removed. This fine example is also gilt for added opulence and is among the finer pieces from the region.

£6,900

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Dimensions

Approximate Dimensions

  • Height: 40 cm (15.75 inches)
  • Diameter: 15 cm (5.9 inches)

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Our description of any item on the website, any condition report and any other statement made by us (whether orally or in writing) about any item, including about its nature or condition, artist, period, materials, approximate dimensions, or provenance are our opinion and not to be relied upon as a statement of fact.

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In the UK Online sales of this kind are known as ‘distance selling’. We offer a refund to customers if you’ve told us within 3 days of receiving the goods that you want to cancel. You have another 14 days to return the goods once you’ve told us of your intention. A refund will be issued within 14 days of receiving the goods back in the same condition. Return shipping should be the same level as received with insurance, we recommend using the same shipper at your cost. If needed we will help organise suitable shipping.

We will refund the purchase price, excluding delivery costs and taxes, within 14 days of the safe receipt of items in the same condition as supplied. The liability for any damage incurred during transit will remain with the sender. We recommend that adequate insurance is placed on items when returning them to us.

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