Sri Lankan Silver Box
Repoussed Silver Box
Kandy, Sri Lanka
circa 1900
length (approx.): 9.5cm
This small, pleasing silver box with a hinged lid, is chased all over with typical motifs associated with the Kandy region. The lid of the box is decorated with an addorsed pair of sacred swan or hamsa-like birds with their necks entwined. The crenulated sides are chased with scrolling creeper motifs. The base is similarly engraved.
The work is typical of Kandy in Sri Lanka’s interior, and is inspired by centuries-old wood carving seen in the area in meeting halls and palaces.
The box is without dents or repairs.
References
Coomaraswamy, A.K., Mediaeval Sinhalese Art, Pantheon Books, 1956 reprint of the 1908 edition.Provenance:
UK art market
Inventory no.: 3151
SOLD