An early 20^th century Indian silver bowl in the Burmese style, Lucknow or Poona circa 1920 by a ‘Peacock’ maker

of compressed tapering circular form, with an embossed frieze of figures in traditional dress, some pursued by an elephant, interspersed with a palm tree and two temples, all against a texture Mandalay style ‘wallpaper’ background. The lower section with a band of stylised betel leaves, the upper section with two simple beaded bands below a plain pushed over rim. The underside with a flat chased maker sigil of a peacock in a textured circle.

Diameter – 19 cm / 7.5 inches

Weight – 675 grams / 21.7 ozt

on discussing the Burmese use of peacock sigils:

"There are a number of variations of 'peacock' signatures, probably referring to different makers, all of whom are indirectly claiming past royal patronage. Pieces signed by the 'peacock' makers are always of very good quality workmanship." 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. 41.