Indian silver plate Cheroot Case, engraved scenes Taj Mahal, early C20th

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Auction Start: 09/06/26 10:50:00 UTC
Auction Ending: 23/06/26 19:02:00 UTC
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Indian silver plate Cheroot Case, engraved scenes Taj Mahal, early C20th

A silver plated slender rectangular case, hinged to one side with a small clasp fitting opposite, which opens to reveal two shallow tray compartments with cloth ‘retainers’, the lid and base both engraved with elaborate near identical designs, a roundel depicting the Taj Mahal to the centre flanked by two confronting peacocks on an intricate stylised floral ground, the scene enclosed within a geometric pattern and foliate border. The work here is typical of that produced by Indian metalworkers in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries intended both for the home colonial and the export market. The quality of their craftsmanship stands out and they have chosen here a ‘classic’ design with India’s most famous building accompanied by two peacocks who are doubtless intended to recall the famous ‘Peacock Throne’ which was commissioned in 1628 by Shah Jahan before the Taj Mahal itself in 1632, but which reputedly cost twice as much. Peacocks are also to be seen in the gardens of the Taj Mahal and the two are often represented together in Indian art. The length of this case suggests that it was intended for the Cheroot, a form of Indian cigar, which was much longer than a standard cigarette. Probably, then, this particular item was made with the home market in mind but it can certainly enjoy a wider appeal today.
Size: Width 15.2cm, Depth 8.2cm, Ht 1.5cm
Weight: 215gm
Date: Early C20th
Condition: Good condition with a very small tarnish stain to the cover
Estimate: £30 – 50

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