ANTIQUE 20thC INDIAN SOLID SILVER THREE PIECE TEA SERVICE ON TRAY, KASHMIR c1900

Antique early 20th Century Indian (Kashmiri) solid silver tea service on tray, consisting of a teapot, sugar bowl, and milk jug. Each piece is richly adorned with interlacing vegetal motifs and an Islamic-inspired "Shawl" pattern, featuring decorative repoussé hemp leaves. The teapot includes heat-resistant wooden handles. Kashmiri silversmiths developed a distinctive and recognisable style of silver ornamentation characterised by intricately chased patterns that cover the entire body of their creations. One notable example of this craftsmanship is the Surahi, a type of water bottle whose form was originally derived from clay goblets used in northern Punjab.

Kashmiri silver craftsmen transformed these utilitarian objects into exquisite works of art by adding elaborate details and intricate designs. The Surahis crafted in Kashmir often feature complex floral and geometric motifs, showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage and the silversmiths' exceptional skill. This blend of traditional forms with intricate silverwork highlights the unique cultural synthesis and artistic innovation that defines Kashmiri silverware. This tea set represents the finest example of Kashmiri silverwork we have encountered, distinguished by its exceptional weight and intricate detail. As expected they are not hallmarked but has been acid tested and shows a 900+ silver purity, made in Kashmir, probably city of Srinagar, the set dates to the 1880 - 1900's.

Reference Number: A10892