RECENT ACQUISITIONS - 5th June
Antique 20th century Burmese (Myanmar) solid silver bowl of circular form, finely chased and pierced with detailed scenes. The decoration illustrates the Konbaung-era telling of an early Burmese legend, in which Pyusawhti saves the city of Pagan from a monstrous bird—one of four beasts endangering its people. In gratitude, King Thamoddarit offered Pyusawhti his daughter’s hand and named him heir. However, upon the king’s death in 152/153 CE, Pyusawhti chose to pass the crown to his teacher, Yathekyaung, who reigned for 15 years.
Pyusawhti later became king in 167/168 CE following Yathekyaung’s death. The underside has an inscription, translated, "1280 [1918 CE]. Mr Pho Saung's silver bowl". Acid tested, showing a 900+ silver standard.
Reference Number: DO11318