Antique late 19th Century Indian parcel gilt Solid Silver spice box (pandan).
Antique late 19th Century Indian parcel gilt Solid Silver spice box (pandan).
£1,450.00
Description
Antique late 19th Century Indian parcel gilt Solid Silver spice box (pandan), star-shaped on six feet, with six hinged lids, modelled in the form of a stylised flower with six lobed divisions with hinged covers, secured by a central screw threaded rod with baluster finial, upon six legs with flower pad feet motifs and birds, each lid set with a large bird, centred by an unscrewable knop. The box would have contained spices or various ingredients to combine and fold into the betel leaf. Spices boxes of various forms appear in Mughal miniatures from the late 16th Century onwards. In courtly settings, the offering of pan marked the end of a visit. A similar example is found in the Victorian & Albert Museum.
Spices that lured travellers to India for trade over centuries which resulted in the plantation industry being established in the nineteenth century, have such a rich cultural history.
Spices were considered precious by the Matriarchs of yore and given great prominence in the cooking as well as in the storage.
Certain main core spices she would have access to and given individually to the kitchen for cooking the main dish of the day.
A spice box would be given by a bride's mother as a wedding gift so that she could learn to cook amazing meals for her new family.
The featured item is a "A parcel gilt SILVER SPICE BOX, INDIA, late 19th century".
Of flower-shaped form divided into heart-shaped compartments, each with a hinged opening and a floral finial, the central screw in the form of a flower bud, the base engraved with Indian script and with old label.
There are six compartments for the main spices like Pepper, Cloves, Cinnamon, Cardamom, Nutmeg , Turmeric etc.
In the present days, the spice box like the one featured is now become an decor accent to transform your space.
Measurements:
Length: 165 mm
Height: 80 mm
Total Weight: 506 grams
| item details | |
|---|---|
| Material and Technique | Parcel gilt Solid Silver |
| Origin | Other |
| Period | 1970s |
| Condition | Excellent |
| Dimensions | Length: 165 mm Height: 80 mm Total Weight: 506 grams |
Product REF: JC-07226
