Lot 171
  • 171

A SILVER REPOUSSÉ SALVER BY OOMERSI MAWJI, INDIA, BHUJ, KUTCH, CIRCA 1870-80 |

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • 41cm. diam. 
chased and engraved with a floral scrolls, with English crest in centre, underside stamped 'O.M Bhuj', on four small round feet

Condition

The tray has been cleaned, in good condition, slight discoloration to one side and one minor section to everted edge rubbed (small section missing), some black residue to outside, as viewed. The piece weighs 1376.7 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Oomersi Mawji, court silversmith to the ruler of Kutch, Maharao Shri Mirza Raja Sawai Khengarji Bahadurno, is recognised as India’s premier silversmiths from the late nineteenth century. They were the first Indian silversmiths to stamp their pieces (usually with the letters ‘OM’), and retailed in upscale stores such as Liberty’s in Regent Street, and Proctor and Co., Oxford Street, London. A tea-set is in the Victoria & Albert Museum, London (inv. no.IS.163-2007). Whether this tray was retailed in London at the time or in India, it was subsequently engraved with the crest of its owner in the United Kingdom as evidenced by the style of carving.