Indian Silver Plate/Salver by Oomersi Mawji, Bhuj, Kutch (Cutch)

Large Repousse Silver Salver by Oomersi Mawji

This good-sized salver, by the firm of Oomersi Mawji, Kutch’s best known master silversmith, stands on four ball feet and is unusual for the fact that the rim is embellished by eight interlocking snakes. The surface of the salver is decorated with the tightly curled flower and foliage scrollwork that is typical of nineteenth century Kutch silver work, but unusually, this is interspersed with six medallions chased with mythical and human figures in traditional dress, all arrayed around a central plain medallion circled by a flower-burst pattern.

The base is marked in intaglio ‘O.M BHUJ’. The work of Oomersi Mawji and his firm was bought by local patrons but also exported to Europe and the United States. Among all Kutch silversmiths, the works of this firm is considered particularly outstanding. It is now much sought after by collectors.

Wilkinson, W.R.T.,

Indian Silver 1858-1947, 1999.

Dehejia, V.,

Delight in Design: Indian Silver for the Raj, Mapin, 2008.

UK art market