An exquisite gold Huqqa Mouthpiece (monal)
Lucknow, circa 1860
Lucknow, circa 1860
with segmented cylindrical body on a base of flaring pedestal form, surmounted by a curving mouthpiece tapering to a narrow opening, the gold surface decorated in relief with bunches of grapes and serrated leaves, the mouthpiece and body divided by a collar of overlapping acanthus leaves
8.2 cm. long; 64 gr.
8.2 cm. long; 64 gr.
Sold for
£3,600
inc. premium
Footnotes
- This monal is of particularly fine quality and the rich encrustation of the design displays European influence, recalling the work of the great early nineteenth century English silversmith Paul Storr (1790 - 1830). Possession of a richly decorated huqqa was a reflection of the owner's social status and the monals were often sculpted in precious materials such as gem stones, rock crystal or jade.
A diamond-set jade example was sold at Christie's, Fine Chinese Ceramics, Jades and Works of Art, 19 September 2007, lot 110.
Category: Islamic and Oriental Art / Islamic and Indian Art
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