Bidri Bowl

India, 18th-19th century. 5 1/4" diameter. Bidri is an alloy of zinc and copper (Pewter is tin and copper). Bidri ware was made in Bidar, India. The body is cast and incised with designs which are inlaid with pure silver. The body is then chemically treated to a black finish in stark contrast. This bowl is decorated with foliate and geometric bands flanking a repeated floral motif. A single snowflake-like figure is centered in the well. Minor losses only to the silver. The inside with encrustation, evidently calcification from being used with a flower pot. Scarce.