BOX
Description
Five sides of the rectangular box are made of milky white jade panels which are fixed to the silver base with silver fittings. However, the precious stones are studded on the etched design on the jade panels and are secured with goldwire which has a decorative granular surface in some places. The technique of this kind of gem studding on jade objects is a substitute for the pietra-dura technique of inlay of semi-precious stones on jade or stone surface. The lapidarist follows the jeweller’s technique and before fixing the precious or semi-precious stones, the designs are appropriately foiled or painted to enhance the brilliance of the colours. The lid also has navaratna stones in a floral pattern.
Four silver balls serve as the legs of the box. Traces of gilding are visible at some places on silver areas.
Collection
Indian Decorative Art
Object Type
Box Decorative Art
Material
Jade with silver frames
Schools/Culture/Period
Mughal
Technique
lapidiary, pietra-dura
Date
Mid 19th century CE
Location
North India
Dimension
5.2 x 6.6 x 4.8 cms.