Serving Tray

Late 19th Century Origin: Kashmir Provenance: Europe Material: Copper This finely worked Kashmiri copper tray is an accomplished example of the region’s tradition of engraved and pierced metalwork. The tray is distinguished by its octagonal form and highly elaborate, concentric ornamental scheme, in which successive bands of engraved, repoussé and pierced decoration radiate from the centre. The most characteristic element of the design is the repeated paisley, traditionally known in Kashmir as badam (almond). The badam appears throughout the tray in varying scales and arrangements, enclosed within geometric frames and interwoven with delicate scrolling foliage, floral forms and arabesques. Rather than functioning as isolated motifs, the paisleys form part of a continuous ornamental rhythm, creating the dense, almost textile-like surface for which fine Kashmiri metalwork is particularly admired. The result is an object in which the distinction between textile ornament and metalwork becomes almost imperceptible. The outer borders are especially intricate, employing openwork foliage and scrolling arabesques, while the successive inner registers alternate between geometric compartments and densely engraved vegetal patterns. The central field is organised around a pierced floral medallion, from which the surrounding ornament unfolds in increasingly elaborate bands. The combination of a demanding geometric composition with extremely fine handwork suggests a piece made not merely as a utilitarian serving object, but as a prestige object intended to be displayed and admired. Its scale, elaborate construction and extraordinary density of ornament place it among the more ambitious forms of traditional Kashmiri copper craftsmanship. Private collection - Traam and Beyond

Not for Sale