Barutdan powder flask from Gujarat
type: Product
description: A particularly decorative Indian ‘barutdan’ powder flask, made in Gujarat during the early 19th century. The flask is constructed around the natural form of a large Turbo shell, whose lustrous surface has been combined with an elaborately decorated upper section composed of individually cut mother-of-pearl plaques. The rounded body follows the natural spiral of the shell, producing an elegant sculptural form with a richly iridescent surface. Its opening is enclosed by a broad collar covered with geometric mother-of-pearl inlay. The central band consists of alternating lozenge-shaped plaques, framed above and below by rectangular borders. Each element is secured with a small brass pin, creating a subtle pattern of regularly spaced points across the surface. The upper face is arranged as a radiating floral composition, with petal-shaped sections of mother-of-pearl surrounding the raised pouring neck. A metal flower-shaped stopper is attached to the flask by its original chain. A woven suspension strap, now showing considerable age and wear, allowed the flask to be carried from the belt or over the shoulder. The term ‘barutdan’ derives from the Persian words ‘barut’, meaning gunpowder, and ‘dan’, meaning container. Such flasks formed an essential part of the equipment of soldiers, hunters and armed retainers throughout India. More luxurious examples were also objects of personal display, reflecting the position and taste of their owners. Gujarati mother-of-pearl work Gujarat had already developed into an important centre for mother-of-pearl craftsmanship by the 16th century. Workshops around Ahmedabad, Cambay and Surat produced caskets, vessels, furniture and other luxury objects decorated with precisely cut shell plaques. These objects were made both for Indian patrons and for export through Gujarat’s extensive maritime trade routes to the Middle East, the Ottoman world and Europe. The most recognisable Gujarati technique involved covering a wooden or metal core with …
offers: Offer
  price: 2500.00
  price currency: EUR
  availability: https://schema.org/InStock
  item condition: https://schema.org/NewCondition

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