Odd primitive container with rattles

[historydetective]

I bought the following multi-compartment container recently. It only weighs 24 grams total, while the container itself is just bigger than 1.5 inches by 1 inch, so the construction is lighter weight than one might expect from just looking at it. I'm wondering if it's old Scandinavian or more recent Middle Eastern or even a reproduction from somewhere like India or China, but the level of detail and handwork is astonishing. Notice the curious horn-shaped end of one half of the egg in Pics # 2, 3,and 4. The middle disk creates 2 entirely separate compartments. The bells/rattles are suggestive of British sterling baby rattles. I am absolutely sure that this piece is solid silver. Three-leaf clovers seem to be a recurring motif. I have searched in vain for marks to no avail. Of course, besides the country of origin, I'd also like to know the age and the original purpose. Thanks in advance!

[dragonflywink]

Hi Chris ~ it's Indian, 'Paisley' shape, dangles/bells, even the little hook & eye, are typical. Had a similar pendant several years ago, though mine was a different shape - a Hindu acquaintance said it was for makeup, one side for kohl paste (kajal), the other for vermillion (sindoor, kumkum).

~Cheryl

[historydetective]

Cheryl, that's wonderful to know! I am appreciative, as always. Do you have a feeling for age? Is it an antique or a reproduction-type item? I've really gotten into Indian/Nepalese miniature paintings lately, so I guess I have my radar set for stuff from that part of the world now, and it's influencing my silver hunting, LOL.

[dragonflywink]

Been a number of years, but seem to recall that she couldn't really give any firm dating on mine - suppose my best guess would be late 19th century into early or maybe mid 20th.....someone with more knowledge of Indian silver would have a better idea.

~Cheryl

[HarishNY]

This is a container used to hold colored powders (Kanku, Sundur, Abil, etc.) used in "puja," or worship rituals. It is most likely from Rajasthan, made in the 1950s.

[oel]

Hi Harish,

Welcome to the forum. Thanks for explaining and we do hope we will hear more of you in the future.

Best,

Oel

[HarishNY]

If anyone is interested in more information on Indian silver, please see my blog at ;

silverfromindia1850-1920.blogspot.com/

[dognose]

Hi Harish,

Welcome to the Forum.

I've enjoyed your website for a long time. We're delighted to have you on board the forum.

Regards, Trev.

[dragonflywink]

Welcome, Harish - nice to have someone who knows Indian silver checking in. Very nice blog - have bookmarked it.....

~Cheryl

[historydetective]

I, too, want to thank you, Harish. It's been very educational.