Enamelled Indo-Persian Brass Bowl with Floral Arabesque
Decorative Art, Brass Bowl • Unknown artisan, likely from a workshop in Northern India (Moradabad school) or Pakistan
Style & Movement
Indo-Persian / Mughal Revival style
Medium & Technique
Brass, hand-chased (engraved) with champlevé-style enamel filling (meenakari) and red cinnabar-colored lacquer background
Creation Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (circa 1950-1980)
Dimensions & Format
Circular bowl, estimated 6-8 inches in diameter; shallow basin format
Subject Description
Centrally radiating floral arabesque pattern featuring 'boti' or leaf motifs and small blossoms. The composition is symmetrical and dense, covering the entire interior surface with stylized vines and foliage
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; significant loss of enamel/lacquer in concentrated areas of the interior basin
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $60 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $40 USD
Provenance History
Likely produced for the export market or as high-quality tourist ware in the post-colonial period; no visible maker's marks or labels shown
Art Historical Significance
Represents the continuation of traditional metalworking techniques (meenakari) into the modern era for trade. While a commercial object rather than a fine arts piece, it reflects the enduring influence of Mughal aesthetic geometry and botanical motifs
Notable Features
Fine, dense 'chased' engraving work and multi-colored enamel accents (blue and white) remaining within the floral motifs; scalloped radial symmetry
Condition Issues
Notable flaking and loss of the red decorative fill in the lower left and central sections; minor oxidation/tarnishing on the brass rim; light surface scratching from use
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning with mild non-reactive brass cleaner to remove oxidation; avoid abrasive scrubbing which would further dislodge the fragile enamel fill; display in a climate-controlled environment away from high humidity