An Indian Raj silver claret jug

Lucknow, circa 1880

Of baluster form, on a circular foot, the handle in the form of a snake extending over the hinged cover to the spout. The neck, body and foot are decorated in an Arabesque pattern, with arches enclosing panels decorated with stylised leaves and flowers alternating on a punched or dense coriander flower decorated ground, the shoulder and underside of the body decorated with rows of fish.

Height 12 ½ inches

Width 4 ½ inches

Weight 24.5 oz.

The decoration on this claret jug is inspired by Mosaic and Arabesque patterns found on 19th century silver made in Srinagar, Kashmir, inspired by late Mughal designs of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Though best known for their “Jungle” patterns, Lucknow silversmiths were well known to incorporate successful designs of other Indian silver making centers, including Kashmir, Madras, and Cutch, into their work. The bold mahseer fish around the shoulder is the symbol of the princely state of Oudh; the Nawabs of Oudh held Lucknow as their capital.

For a discussion on Kashmir and Lucknow Silver see Wilkinson (Wynyard R.T.) Indian Silver 1858-1947, 1999, pp. 103-144

Condition: Very good, one barely noticeable ding to body, possibly previously with old black lac in recesses, now eroded through use and polish.