An early 20th century Anglo – Indian unmarked silver parcel gilt and enamel teapot, Kashmir, Srinagar circa 1900-20

Raj period, of baluster form with a curved spout opposite a opposite a wrought and shaped handle. The hinged domed lid surmounted by a faceted pyriform knop. The body with chased decoration in ‘Arabesque pattern’ with trailing flowers, reserved with opaque dark blue and turquoise enamel, all against a gilt ground.

Length – 19.5 cm / 7.75 inches

Weight – 356 grams / 11.45 ozt

“Occasionally, silver made in Kashmir was enamelled in the same manner as the locally made copper wares. (…) The bright colours used in the enamel work were intended to imitate the precious or semi-precious stones that were sometimes used on more expensive pieces.” Wilkinson, W., (1999)., Indian Silver 1858-1947: Decorative Silver from the Indian Sub-Continent and Burma Made by Local Craftsmen in Western Forms. London, Wynyard R T Wilkinson, P. 106.