Hamilton & Co Silver Indian Plate

Unusual Chased Silver Plate by Hamilton & Co.

This unusual solid silver plate or dish by the Calcutta-based firm, Hamilton & Co., features an eclectic mix of motifs and patterns. The scalloped edge is unusual for colonial silver plates. The broad rim is chased and engraved with a variant of Cutch-style flower and foliage scrolling. The lotus panel bordering in the centre of the plate is Chinese in style. And the petals of the lotus are infilled with Madras-style avatars of Vishnu amid foliage scrolls.

The reverse of the plate is stamped with a ‘H&Co’ mark and an elephant motif stamp. It is also further engraved with the words ‘Hamilton Calcutta’ and another elephant motif.

UK art market