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Card Case, Silver, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Southern India, ca. 1880 – 1890.

 

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY – NON-EXPORTABLE ITEM.

 

Object Detail

 
 

This Silver case, probably a card holder features a beautifully scalloped edge, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. At the centre, Lord Viṣṇu is depicted in a sampada (standing with the feet together or even) posture, standing on a lotus pedestal. Surrounding the central figure are several smaller figures, which appear to be dancers or guardians, each captured in various dynamic poses, enriched by a foliated with a central motif of Kīrtimukha (face of glory). On top, at both ends of the piece are detailed figures in classic poses that attract attention.

 

In the middle section, two guardian figures stand watch. On the right, a makara guardian is shown in añjali (salutation) mudra, bowing to the lord. On the opposite side, another figure appears captivated by the divine presence. In the foreground, to the left, one figure has a crown resembling a nāga, while next to it, a middle-aged man shows wisdom. In the centre, an ornate elephant sits on a narrow platform, adorned with jewellery that suggests a divine status. The entire scene features an array of botanical motifs that create a sense of life and movement and enhance the scene’s spiritual quality.

 

The engravings beneath the representation of Viṣṇu feature the initials “W.H.C.,” likely linked to a colonial official or a significant battlefield. One side references the Hastings Battlefield, possibly commemorating a historical victory, while the name “Hastings” might connect to a British official, though not necessarily Warren Hastings. Another side of the engraving bears the phrase “keep cracking,” which could serve as an inspirational quote related to Hastings. Additionally, the markings “Juncal 691” and “Callo 555” are etched into the surface, possibly denoting important dates or military units. Overall, the piece reflects a blend of colonial history and personal legacies.

 

Provenance

 

From a Private Collection in Mumbai, India.

 

Condition

 

Good Condition with minor wear, light scratches.

 

Dimension

 

Weight –

Dimensions –

 

Literature Comparison

 

1.Vidya Dehejia, Delight in Design: Indian Silver for the Raj (Ahmedabad: Mapin Publishing, 2008)

 

2.Neil Shapiro, Match Safes from India, Match Safe Scholar, accessed July 25, 2025, https://matchsafescholar.com/assets/pdfs/articles/Match_Safes_from_India.pdf.

 

3.Vidya Dehejia, Delight in Design: Indian Silver for the Raj.

 

 

 

 

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