Bidri Silver-inlaid Vase, Bidar, Deccan, North India, C1890

A very decorative Bidri silver-inlaid vase with squat body and a long neck from Deccan, North India, c1890. On the body, there are inlaid leaves and garlands. On the neck, it is decorated with bands of foliage and stylised flowers. The bidri technique starts with moulding the cast white brass. After this stage, the metal is smoothened by file, engraved by chisel and silver inlaying. The mould is smoothened again and finished with the blackening process. Traditionally, this process is made with soil from the grounds of Bidar Fort (15th century Ce). It weights 2.74 kg. In excellent decorative condition, with some wear to silver commensurate with age.