A PRATAPGARH THEWA PARCEL-GILT SILVER BOX WITH STAINED GLASS AND FIGURAL GOLD LEAF DECORATION
Rajasthan, North-Western India, late 19th century

A rectangular Indian silver box from Pratapgarh, Rajasthan, the lid exquisitely inlaid using the traditional thewa technique, with a pierced sheet of pure gold depicting the beloved couple of Radha and Krishna followed by a procession of cowherd girls (gopis) beneath flowering trees, surrounded by cows, bulls, and peacocks, all set against a shimmering green glass ground, the silver body and sides chased with scrolling floral patterns, the interior richly gilt, the base plain and highly polished, this distinctive Pratapgarh thewa work is prized by collectors for its unique method of fusing finely pierced gold leaf with vibrantly coloured glass, a craft developed in Rajasthan from the late 18th century and flourishing until the early 20th century, most often for presentation boxes, jewellery caskets, and collectible Indian decorative art. Thewa pieces are celebrated for their intricate goldwork, often showing scenes from Hindu mythology, Mughal court life, or floral and animal motifs.

8.5cm x 6cm x 3.5cm

130gr.