Tray (Primary Title)
salver (Object Name)
Unknown (Artist)
One of the most important contributions of Indian metalworkers was the development of a distinctive were known as bidri after the city of Bidar in the Deccan. These objects were made by inlaying silver and/or brass into a body of zinc alloy. A chemical paste was applied that permanently darkened the zinc body, but left the dazzling metal inlays unaffected. This large, sumptuous example may have been used to serve food and drink, or perhaps to support a water pipe (huqqa).
Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
