www.925-1000.com

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!

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

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.

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

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.

Hi Harish,

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

Best,

Oel

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

silverfromindia1850-1920.blogspot.com/

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.

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

~Cheryl

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