Search results

Start typing

Splendours of the Subcontinent

The future Edward VII toured India in 1875-6 when Prince of Wales. A selection of gifts he was presented with is collected together here

ENAMELLED BY HIRA SINGH, JAIPUR

Perfume holder

c. 1870 - 1875

Gold, enamel, diamonds and pearls | 15.6 × 20.3 cm (open); 14.4 × 20.3 cm (closed) | RCIN 11423

This perfume holder was a gift from Ram Singh II, Maharaja of Jaipur. When pressure is applied to the rod beneath the tray, the ‘leaves’ of the perfume holder open to reveal a yellow enamelled cup and cover. The feet of the tray are in the form of elephant-like animals with curled up trunks that rest on green enamelled circular feet with kundan-set diamonds.

The circular tray is enamelled with eight oval medallions depicting hunting scenes, the Chandra Mahal and Amber Fort, and floral designs similar to the salver (RCIN 11469). Thomas Holbein Hendley recorded that this perfume holder was enamelled by Hira Singh and that it cost 10,000 rupees to produce. The enamelled holder underwent five firings and took five years to complete.

Perfume holder©

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.