Lot 355: **NO RESERVE** A PAIR OF INDIAN SILVER INLAID BELL SHAPED BIDRIWARE HOOKAH BASES.
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A pair of bell-shaped hookah bases constructed from a dark grey alloy, featuring elaborate silver inlay decoration. Each vessel follows a traditional form consisting of a wide, flared base, a bulbous lower body, and a cylindrical neck punctuated by a central disc-like knop and a flared rim. The decoration is executed in the teh-nishan and aftabi techniques, characteristic of Bidri metalwork from the Deccan region or Northern India. The primary decorative motifs on the bodies are large, teardrop-shaped paisley or buta floral sprays filled with dense stippled patterns. These are framed by concentric bands of chased floral scrolls, vine tendrils, and repeating geometric chevron borders at the base. The necks are decorated with diagonal bands of stylised foliate patterns.
H: Approximately 21cm
Condition report:
The pair shows signs of significant age and historical use. There is widespread rubbing and loss to the silvered inlay, particularly on the raised portions of the bell and the neck knops, exposing the dark brownish-grey base metal (Photo 1). Significant oxidation and darkening are present across the surfaces, resulting in a matte, aged appearance (Photo 2). The circular base of the vessel on the right exhibits slight warping and unevenness along the rim (Photo 1). Fine surface scratches, abrasions, and general surface wear are visible throughout the metallic finish (Photo 3). No significant cracks or structural repairs are evident.
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