A miniature silver Hookah Base Alwar, circa 1880
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Alwar, circa 1880
Alwar, circa 1880
13.7 cm. high
Footnotes
Although the decoration on this vessel is highly reminiscent of the earlier Mughal period, it is most probably the work of two Alwar craftsmen, Panna Lal and Nand Kishore, although the refined style suggests that it is most likely the hand of Panna Lal. Their styles were distinctive for the naturalistic detailing and slight naivety. Alwar engraved work was only popular for a few years (circa 1880-85), probably because the pieces did not withstand any form of usage. For further information on these two craftsmen and illustrations of their work, see Wynyard Wilkinson, Indian Silver 1858-1947, London, 1999, pp. 14-19.