Samavar

Late 19th–early 20th century Origin: Kashmir Material: Copper with tin plating Design: Shawl-tarah An elaborately engraved Kashmiri copper samovar, distinguished by an exceptionally dense ornamental treatment inspired by the visual language of Kashmiri shawl design. The entire vessel is covered with finely worked engraving, transforming what was essentially a functional vessel for preparing and serving chai or kahwa into a highly decorative object. The decoration is arranged in distinct horizontal registers, with paisley or boteh motifs enclosed within cusped arch forms and surrounded by delicate scrolling foliage, floral elements and fine arabesque ornament creating a rhythmic architectural framework across the body. This treatment may be described as Shawl Tarah, literally a shawl-like design or manner of ornamentation, where the vocabulary of woven shawls is translated into metal through engraving. This samovar exemplifies the close relationship between Kashmiri textile design and metalwork, demonstrating how ornamental conventions developed for highly sophisticated shawls were adapted by metalworkers to create equally elaborate domestic objects. Its pierced and ornamented heating stand, sculptural spout and elaborate handle further emphasize the importance given to both craftsmanship and visual refinement in Kashmiri household vessels. Private collection - Traam and Beyond

Not for Sale