This entry sits within the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub indexing design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
Indian silverware from the 19th and early 20th centuries often exhibits a purity below the sterling standard of 92.5% silver content, typically between 80% and 90%. This variance in purity reflects the diverse practices of regional artisans and the absence of standardized hallmarking systems during that era (Pushkin’s, n.d.).
British Influence and Craftsmanship
During the British colonial period, English silversmiths established workshops in major Indian cities such as Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay, producing silverware in English styles to cater to the expatriate community. Notable firms like Hamilton & Co., founded in Calcutta in 1808, became prominent for their high-quality silver pieces. These workshops often employed and trained local artisans, leading to a fusion of British and Indian design elements (Chiswick Auctions, n.d.).
Marking Practices
Unlike the standardized hallmarking system in Britain, Indian silverware from this period lacked uniform marks indicating purity or origin. While some pieces bear the maker’s name or initials, these marks primarily identify the craftsman or workshop without providing information on silver content or quality. The absence of a regulated hallmarking system means such marks do not carry the same assurances as British hallmarks (Mozeris Fine Antiques, n.d.).
Design and Aesthetic Integration
The collaboration between British silversmiths and Indian artisans led to unique creations that blended Western forms with indigenous motifs. For instance, “Swami silver” from Madras featured traditional European shapes adorned with depictions of Hindu deities, showcasing a harmonious integration of cultural aesthetics (Wikipedia, 2024).
Contemporary Considerations
Today, collectors and enthusiasts value Indian silverware for its historical significance and distinctive design. However, due to the historical lack of standardized hallmarking, assessing the authenticity and purity of antique pieces requires careful examination by experts. Modern Indian silverware now adheres to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmarking system, which certifies purity levels and ensures quality (Bureau of Indian Standards, n.d.).
The evolution of Indian silverware during the colonial period reflects a rich tapestry of cultural exchange, craftsmanship, and adaptation, resulting in both artistically significant and historically valuable pieces.
Sources
Bureau of Indian Standards. (n.d.). Overview of Hallmarking. Retrieved from Bureau of Indian Standards
Chiswick Auctions. (n.d.). Indian Colonial Silver. Retrieved from Chiswick Auctions
Mozeris Fine Antiques. (n.d.). The Ultimate Guide How to Identify Silver Hallmarks. Retrieved from Mozeri’s Fine Antiques
Pushkin’s. (n.d.). Indian Silver – History & Silversmiths. Retrieved from Pushkin Antiques
Wikipedia. (2024). Swami silver. Retrieved from Wikipedia
Wills, G. (1976). A concise encyclopedia of antiques. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company.
Discover more from Encyclopedia of Design
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.