Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a set of six hand-chased and enameled brass finger or dessert bowls featuring traditional Indian floral and foliate motifs. Each piece combines intricate background punchwork with colored lac or enamel inlays in vibrant shades of red, teal, blue, and pink.
Story
Centuries of North Indian metalworking mastery live in these handheld bowls. Artisans used tiny chisels and colored lac resin to transform humble brass into dazzling jeweled surfaces.
Maker / Origin
Crafted in historic brassworking centers such as Moradabad—widely celebrated as the 'Brass City' (Peetal Nagri)—and Rajasthan. Metal crafters (thatheras) inherited chasing and enamel-inlay techniques across generations, adapting classical Mughal court styles for global travelers and export markets throughout the 20th century.
Condition & Value
Good vintage condition showing authentic surface patina, interior tarnishing, and spots of age-appropriate oxidation. The polychrome enamel exterior bands remain bright with minor rubbing. Visible age patina is normal for brass of this vintage and does not significantly harm value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.