Silver by renowned Indian silversmith Oomersi Mawji in Lichfield auction
SILVER works by celebrated Indian silversmith Oomersi Mawji are coming to auction in Lichfield.The pieces were discovered in a large Scottish estate cleared by Richard Winterton Auctioneers and go under the hammer on Monday, June 24.
The sale takes place at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, starting at 9.30am.
Lot 137 features four pieces of Indian Kutch silver bearing the mark OM Bhuj.
They are:
- A conical cream jug with serpent handle, repoussé and chased foliate scrolls featuring hounds, antelope and boar, height 9cm, 3.92ozt, 121.9 grams
- A pedestal egg cup decorated with repoussé and chased foliate scrolls, height 7.5cm, 2.57ozt, 80 grams
- A wavy rimmed circular sugar bowl with repoussé and chased foliate scrolls on four ball feet, 4.16ozt, 129.3 grams, and
- A sugar castor spoon with shell shaped bowl and foliate handle, not marked Bhuj, 1.03ozt, 32 grams, total weight 11.68ozt, 363.2 grams.
The sale also features a host of other silver pieces including a George V biscuit or cracker barrel with lion mask ring handles (Lot 135), a George V spirit kettle on stand (Lot 140) and a late Victorian three-piece tea set (Lot 145).
Considered the most renowned Indian silversmith ever, Oomersi Mawji’s peerless work is still sought after all over the world and some of his pieces can be found amongst the collections of international museums.
Produced from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, Kutch or Cutch silver is one of the most popular styles of Indian silver.
The style is known for its combination of local decorative artistry with a more European form with a signature of deeply chased, precise foliage with skilfully worked animals.
The catalogue for the June 24 auction can be viewed online now via our Auction Dates page.
Viewing in person takes place by appointment on Friday, June 21, and on sale day people can bid online, in the room or by prior arranged telephone bid.
To arrange viewing or to book a free valuation of any type of item, call 01543 251081 or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk.
Home visits for large collections and house clearance quotations are also available.