Description:

 A FINE ENAMELLED BRONZE INDIAN EWER AND BASIN, 18TH/19TH CENTURY
India, 18th/19th century

Description:
A finely cast bronze ewer and basin set, adorned with vibrant green and gold enamel decoration in scrolling floral designs. The ewer features a bulbous lower body tapering to a flared neck, with a tall curved spout and an ornate handle with stylised palmette and foliate terminals. The matching basin is deep and wide with a flared rim, similarly decorated in harmonious vegetal patterns.

The enamel is applied in scrolling vines and stylised blossoms, characteristic of late Mughal and early Rajput decorative schemes, and set against the natural warmth of patinated bronze. The condition is excellent overall, with minor expected rubbing to the enamel surface and light patination consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:
Ewer height: 36cm
Basin diameter: 26cm​

Comparable examples:

  • A related enamelled ewer and basin, Northern India, late 18th century, sold at Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, London, 25 April 2018, Lot 127, for £6,875.

  • A similar Indian bronze ewer and basin with enamelled decoration, 19th century, sold at Christie’s, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, London, 27 October 2022, Lot 143, for £7,500.

  • An enamelled Indian ewer attributed to Rajasthan, early 19th century, is in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, Inv. no. 4448(IS).

Provenance:
Private European collection

Note:
This elegant set exemplifies the fusion of form and surface ornamentation in late Mughal and regional Indian metalwork. Ewers and basins were integral to courtly rituals of hospitality and purification, and their design often mirrored the architectural and textile aesthetics of the period. The use of coloured enamel on bronze, though less common than Bidri or silver inlay, showcases the technical versatility and decorative ambition of Indian artisans during this transitional era.

 

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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