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An 19th-Century Indian Bidriware Spittoon

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An 19th-Century Indian Bidriware Spittoon

An 19th-Century Indian Bidriware Spittoon

$ 200.00

This is a fine example of Indian Bidriware, a traditional metal handicraft originating from the city of Bidar in the Deccan region. The object, likely intended as a decorative vase or possibly a spittoon, is characteristic of the late 19th or early 20th-century production. It showcases the distinctive technique of silver or brass inlay on a blackened zinc and copper alloy. Its value is derived from its skilled craftsmanship, decorative appeal, and representation of a significant Indian artistic tradition.

 

Origin: Bidar, Deccan
Region, India
Date: Circa Late 19th / Early 20th Century

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The vessel is of a classic baluster form, resting on a wide, domed, and spreading foot. It rises to a pronounced central knop, which separates the base from the upper body, culminating in a gracefully flared, trumpet-shaped mouth with a simple, unadorned rim. The entire piece is constructed from a cast metal alloy, characteristic of Bidriware, which has been treated to achieve a deep, matte, black finish that serves as a dramatic ground for the intricate surface decoration.

The ornamentation covers nearly the entire exterior surface in a dense, continuous pattern. This decoration has been executed in the tarkashi (wire inlay) or tehnishan (sheet inlay) technique, using a contrasting silvery-gold metal, likely brass or a low-grade silver. The primary motifs are floral and foliate, drawing heavily from Perso-Mughal design traditions. The upper bowl and the domed base both feature a complex network of stylized flowers, possibly representing poppies or chrysanthemums, interconnected by a delicate lattice of scrolling vines and leaves. This creates a rich, carpet-like effect that is both intricate and harmonious.

A narrow decorative band, featuring a repeating geometric or simplified foliate pattern, delineates the lower edge of the domed foot, providing a formal termination to the design. The craftsmanship is confident and detailed, with the inlaid lines appearing fluid and well-defined, despite some age-related wear. The stark contrast between the luminous metallic inlay and the deep black of the alloy ground is the defining aesthetic feature of the piece, lending it a sense of restrained opulence.