Pair of spice boxes c. 1870 - 1875
Gold | 5.1 x 5.6 x 2.6 cm (parts .a and .b together) | RCIN 11474
-
A pair of gold rectangular spice boxes and lids chased with bands of repoussé leaf ornament. These boxes were perhaps used to store ingredients used in the preparation of paan. Paan is a mild stimulant usually offered at the end of formal assemblies in India and is made of shavings of areca nut, various seeds and spices, lime paste and occasionally tobacco wrapped in a betel leaf. These containers are part of a courtly set of eleven items that was presented to Albert Edward, Prince of Wales during his four-month tour of India. When the Prince returned from his lengthy tour, he organised for his gifts from India to be exhibited in various locations across Britain, and Paris and Copenhagen. This gold set was particularly commended for its design in reviews of the Prince's gifts.
Provenance
Presented to King Edward VII, when Prince of Wales, during his tour of India in 1875-76 by Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, Maharaja of Mysore.
-
Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
-
Medium and techniques
Gold
Measurements
5.1 x 5.6 x 2.6 cm (parts .a and .b together)
Place of Production
Mysore [Karnataka]