Gem-Set Enameled Footed, Lidded Gold Cup with Handle; Bird and Floral Motifs
Date19th century
PeriodBritish India/Princely States
MediumEnameled gold, diamonds
DimensionsOverall: 3 7/8 x 2 1/4 x 2 15/16 in. (9.8 x 5.7 x 7.5cm)
ClassificationsMetalwork
Credit LineCourtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art
Object number44.51a-b
DescriptionThis lidded cup is adorned with ornamentation of flora and fauna, lined with roundels containing bouquets of red flowers and scenes of animals hunting. Plants and animals were keenly observed by Mughal emperors. The fourth Mughal ruler Jahangir (r. 1605–1627 CE) and his son Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1658 CE) were known for their interest in botany. Imagery of the natural world is abundant in the arts of Mughal India, adorning jewelry, dagger hilts, miniature paintings, and fine enameled wares. These motifs persisted in the arts of India long after the collapse of the Mughal empire in the 19th century.On View
On viewCollections
17th - 18th century
17th century
19th - 20th century
20th century
