Petite Indian Swivel Box

This petite keepsake box with a swivel lid is crafted in the tradition of Indian bidri-ware, with a dark metal body decorated with simple silver inlay. Composed of a zinc and copper alloy known as gun metal, the small box is cast in the form of a leaf or mango and was likely originally used to store kumkuma, a vibrant powder used for religious markings. The lid of the box is hand-etched with delicate linework and floral motifs, and inlaid with silver wire at each petal.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.

Small chip to lip.