Kasumisou Foundation – Leap Forward for Kids in the Arts!
Auction Ends: Mar 15, 2016 10:00 PM EDT

Antiques

c 1900 Burmese Silver and Jade Box

Item Number
114
Opening Bid
650 USD

Item Description

This highly ornamented Burmese box  is made of silver ( estimated 90%) ornamented with 10  Burmese jade medallions and features a chased design depicting one of the many stories of Burmese kings often seen in Burmese art.

The design in  silver is formed by placing a warmed sheet of silver on top of a board tray that has been coated with a thick coat of  boiling tree pitch. The silversmith can then "chase" or carve the design into the surface. Once all of the sides have been completed, the skill of the silversmith will be measured not only by the detail of the design in the chased or carved silver, but also in his ability to hide the joints and seams as the box is assembled and preserve the designs. Other attributes include the symetry of the piece and  mechanics of the box such as functioning and durable hinges. 

Typical of many items of that period, this silver is not stamped or hallmarked. Sometimes referred "back door" silver, it was common for British expatriates in Burma to frequent the front door of a silversmithing establishment for official gifts, but engaged artisans via the "back door" to produce goods for personal use at a lower price.

Measuring     9long    x 6 wide   x 3.5 inches high   ( at it highest point),

The box weighs approximately 1 kg ( 2.2 pound)

The item will be boxed and sent via insured post at the expense of the purchaser, cost may vary by location.