Antique Aftaba Ewer Teapot Indian Silver Chased Tombac Kashmir Bukhara With Hamsa Goose and Nastaliq Naskh Script

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Description

Large, Superb Aftabeh in the Bukharan Style, 19th century, Kashmir, India.

This unusually large ewer is in the style of … Read more Large, Superb Aftabeh in the Bukharan Style, 19th century, Kashmir, India.

This unusually large ewer is in the style of a Bukharan teapot, although the work is clearly of Kashmir origin. The teapot is entirely chased with foliage, sacred goose (hamsa) and nastaliq or naskh script allover. The neck, the spout and the handle are marked with wonderful arabesque motifs in the Veneto Saracenic style.
The teapot has a pear-shaped flared body that is decorated with tear-shaped cartouches to either side. It sits on a wide, flared circular foot. The spout is prominent and continues some way down the base. The lid has a bud finial, matched by a lotus bud-like protuberance that rises and curls down from the handle.
The ‘S’ shaped handle is in the form of a highly stylized dragon or makara figure.
The form of the teapot might appear to be a coffee pot to European tastes but in fact, coffee drinking was unknown in Bukhara in the nineteenth century and earlier – tea was the beverage that was universally consumed.
This is a rare and extraordinary piece that both showcases the heights of which nineteenth century Kashmiri metalwork was capable, and demonstrates a syncretic blend of influence between Islamic north India and Bukhara.
The base material is brass tombac and the inlay and chasing is of silver or occasionally copper.

Measurements: 14 inches (36 cm) high; approx. 6 inches (15 cm) wide.
Provenance: Family private collection. Acquired by great-grand-father W. A. Watson who was an accomplished archeologist and Master SGT that served with the 3rd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland. This was an infantry battalion from the Royal Regiment of Scotland that served in WWI in Greece, Egypt, and the Middle East.
Condition: excellent for its age. Visually magnificent, authentic ancient luxury. Normal antique wear visible but not disturbing at all. The vessel has a warm time patina. One “damage” is the handle separates/unhinged from the lid which makes the lid to become stand-alone if desired.
Please see all the photos attached.
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