A gem-set and enamelled agate box, India, 19th century

of rectangular form, composed of agate plaques each set in the kundan technique with colourful gemstones including diamonds and rubies, in a floral design, with polychrome enamel borders and round feet, in custom silk-lined box

The technique for juxtaposing semiprecious stones into others, such as agate, reached its zenith under Mughal rule. This trend continued to be popular into the nineteenth century, and the present example combines the inclusion of colourful gemstones set into floral patterns using fine gold wires with polychrome enamel borders, further enhancing its opulence.