Description:

AN INDIAN BRONZE & ENAMEL CHALICE DEPICTING MUHAMMAD SHAH, DATED 1719, 18TH CENTURY
India, Mughal Empire, dated AH 1131 (1719 CE)

Description:
This rare and finely executed bronze chalice features intricate champlevé enamel decoration in vibrant hues of turquoise, cobalt, and crimson. The central medallion portrays Emperor Muhammad Shah (r. 1719–1748) enthroned, adorned in regal attire, and encircled by courtly motifs and floral arabesques. The chalice's form, with its flared lip and tapering foot, is characteristic of ceremonial vessels from the Mughal period. The dated inscription aligns with the first year of Muhammad Shah's reign, suggesting it may have been commissioned to commemorate his accession. The combination of figural representation and enamel work exemplifies the opulence of Mughal courtly art in the early 18th century.

Dimensions: Height: 28.5 cm

Comparable examples:

  • A rare Mughal enamelled and gem-set cup, India, 18th century, sold at Sotheby’s, London, Arts of the Islamic World, 27 April 2022, Lot 91, for £63,000.

  • An 18th-century Mughal enamelled huqqa base, North India, with similar decorative palette and technique, sold at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 25 October 2021, Lot 147, for £45,000.

  • A Mughal gem-set and enamelled gold pandan box, late 17th to early 18th century, featuring related craftsmanship, achieved £84,000 at Christie’s, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 2 May 2019, Lot 106.

Note:
Depictions of Mughal emperors in enamelled metalwork are exceedingly rare. This chalice, with its regal portrait of Muhammad Shah and meticulous decoration, likely served a ceremonial or commemorative function within the imperial court, reflecting the rich tradition of opulent patronage under his reign.

 

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

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