ANTIQUE 20THC INDIAN ROYAL SOLID SILVER SCROLL HOLDER, OOMERSI MAWJI JR C.1900

DESCRIPTION

Antique early-20th Century Monumental Indian colonial solid silver scroll casket. Of traditional rectangular form, standing on a wide spreading foot, decorated with acanthus leaf and reeded boarders with x-junctions, the sides adorned with bow tied swags and rosettes in shield reserves, surrounded by columns. The large domed lid mounted with a large shaped finial, the interior is lined with red and blue silk.

The two large sides depicting what appears to be the Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara (Baroda), Gujarat, India. The two side panels appear to be depicting the interior of the palace, a Library room, showing a gentleman reading a book and a bar with two gentleman having a drink. The Lakshmi Vilas Palace was constructed by the Gaekwad family, a prominent Maratha family, who ruled the Baroda State. Major Charles Mant was credited to be the main architect of the palace.

Lakshmi Vilas Palace was styled on the Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890's. It is reputed to have been the largest private dwelling built until that time and four times the size of Buckingham Palace and was reputedly the most expensive building erected by a private individual in the 19th century. At the time of construction, it boasted the most modern amenities such as elevators and the interior is reminiscent of a large European country house. It remains the residence of the royal family, who continue to be held in high esteem by the residents of Baroda. The Palace compound is of over 500 acres and houses a number of buildings, particularly the LVP Banquets & Conventions, Moti Bagh Palace and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum building.

Hallmarked 'O.M Baroda' for Oomersee Mawji Jr, this exceptional silversmith is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated Indian silversmith of all time. The inventiveness and the spotless quality of his works had no rivals in Kutch and his pieces are still sought after worldwide. Oomersee Mawjee Jr. (1920-1930) was a master silversmith in the employment of the Gaekwad of Baroda (fig. 3, Dehejia, cit. loc.). Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III (1863-1939) was a noted patron of arts, and during his reign Baroda became a hub for artists and scholars. Even the celebrated painter, Raja Ravi Varma, moved to his court during this period. He amassed an impressive collection of jewels, jewellery and silverware.

CONDITION

In Great Condition - No Damage.

SIZE

Height: 29cm
Width: 42.5 x 22cm
Weight: 4175g