A pair of late 19^th century Anglo – Indian unmarked silver bowls, Poona circa 1890

Raj period, each of rounded circular form with a fold over rim, the sides with chased decoration in demon pattern, of various figures within architraves, also including Burmese Kinnari and Garuda. All interspersed with foliate scrolls and below a band of foliate scrolls. Each flat chased underneath with a stylised rosette. (2)

Diameter – 23 cm / 9 inches

Height – 16.3 cm / 6.4 inches

Weight – 2427 grams / 78.03 ozt

A demon pattern bowl is illustrated in Wilkinson, W., (1999)., Indian Silver 1858-1947: Decorative Silver from the Indian Sub-Continent and Burma Made by Local Craftsmen in Western Forms. London, Wynyard R T Wilkinson, p.171 f. 282.

“There are two different types of Poona silverwork, the first was very similar to that of Madras and South India, with representational scenes in high relief divided into sections. This work, usually featured either the Avatara, adventures of Vishnu, or scenes from the Ramayana. The workmanship was invariably of a very high standard, with the figures in higher relief than is found in Madras. The best exponent, who often signed his work was Irappa Buchana.

The second type of Poona silverwork was characterised by a distinctive, bold and fine form of repousse, the chief subjects being in half-relief and the finished product oxidised in order to maximise the dramatic effect of the decoration.” Ibid. p. 169.