Page 82 - 2021 April 1, ART OF THE ISLAMIC AND Indian Worlds Including Oriental Rugs, Christie's London

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A FINE SILVER AND BRASS-INLAID BIDRI HUQQA BASE
BIDAR, DECCAN, INDIA, LATE 17TH CENTURY
Of spherical form rising to a slightly flaring tubular neck with two flanges, the
decoration with staggered rows of lotus blossoms, bands of stylised petals
and floral scrolls above and below, the base missing, on wooden stand
6¾in. (17.2cm.) high
£6,000-8,000 US$8,400-11,000
€7,000-9,200
A bidri tray of comparable date with similar components, but more developed
and sophisticated floral design is in the Los Angeles County Museum (inv.no.
M.89.19). For another comparable example see Mark Zebrowski, Gold, Silver
& Bronze from Mughal India, 1997, pl.508, p.305.

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A PARCEL-GILT SILVER HUQQA BASE
LUCKNOW, INDIA, LATE 18TH CENTURY
Of bell-shaped form, with truncated slightly flaring neck, the body decorated
with a series of oval medallions, each containing a stylised poppy plant, the
design highlighted with gilding, possibly later
7æin. (19.5cm.) high
£5,000-7,000 US$7,100-9,900
€5,900-8,200
PROVENANCE:
Oppi Untracht
Thence by descent until purchased by the present owner
LITERATURE:
Oppi Untracht, Marjatta and Asko Parpola, Metal Marvels, exhibition
catalogue, Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Stockholm, 12 February-30
April 1994, p.22, no.10
Our huqqa base used to be decorated in enamel as indicated by the small
punch marks occasionally found on the body. The design on the main body
and neck relates to an enamelled example from the late 18th Century in
the Victoria and Albert Museum, London (inv. no. I.S.122-1886), see Mark
Zebrowski, Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, 1997, pl.74, p.87.

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80 In addition to the hammer price, a Buyer’s Premium (plus VAT) is payable. Other taxes and/or an Artist Resale Royalty
fee are also payable if the lot has a tax or λ symbol. Check Section D of the Conditions of Sale at the back of this catalogue.