Indian Brass and Silver-Tone Engraved Bud Vase
Hollowware (Bud Vase/Decorative Object) · Unknown Indian workshop or artisan; typical of export-grade decorative brassware commonly marketed through import-export firms in the late 20th century.
Pattern: Non-specific floral and banded geometric pattern; characteristic of mass-produced Indian handicraft exported globally.
Type
Hollowware (Bud Vase/Decorative Object)
Maker
Unknown Indian workshop or artisan; typical of export-grade decorative brassware commonly marketed through import-export firms in the late 20th century.
Material
Decorative Silver Plate or Nickel-wash over a Base Metal of Yellow Brass. There is no precious silver content; the 'silver' color is a decorative surface coating or 'blackened' oxidation finish applied to the brass base.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 inches in height. Heavy for its size due to the dense brass core; weight approximately 300-500 grams.
Description
This is a classic example of an Indian brass bud vase featuring a bi-metal aesthetic. The vase is shaped with a stepped pedestal base, a bulbous lower body, and a long, slender neck flaring at the rim. The surface is treated with a dark grey or silver-colored coating that has been selectively etched away to reveal the warm, golden brass underneath in the shape of flowers, leaves, and horizontal bands. It represents a common decorative houseware item rather than a fine silver collectible.
Key Features
Contrast between the greyish 'oxidized' surface and the bright brass; hand-etched floral design; pedestal base; typical Indian export form.
Material & Composition
Decorative Silver Plate or Nickel-wash over a Base Metal of Yellow Brass. There is no precious silver content; the 'silver' color is a decorative surface coating or 'blackened' oxidation finish applied to the brass base.
Finish & Decoration
Etched and engraved floral motifs with selective removal of the surface finish to reveal the yellow brass beneath. Features a blackened/oxidized matte background with polished brass highlights and banded geometric rings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually lacks formal silversmith hallmarks; if marked at all, it likely bears a simple stamp saying 'India' or 'Handmade in India' on the bottom of the footed base.
Construction Details
Cast brass or spun metal construction, then hand-finished on a lathe. The decorative etching is machine-assisted or hand-chiseled using traditional Indian metalworking techniques.
Functional Features
Hollow interior for holding water and flowers; flared rim for bloom support; weighted bottom for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This form is a pedestal bud vase without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-etched but mass-produced. The engraving is rudimentary and lacks the precision of high-end repoussé or fine chasing found in investment-grade silver.
Authentication Indicators
The exposure of yellow metal where the surface is scratched or etched is a definitive indicator that this is brass, not sterling silver. Lack of standard silver hallmarks (.925) further confirms it is decorative base metalware.
Origin & Manufacturing
India, likely Moradabad (known as the 'Brass City') or similar manufacturing hubs in Uttar Pradesh known for electroplated and engraved metal exports.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (c. 1970s–1990s). Heavily influenced by traditional Mogul or Persian metalwork aesthetics adapted for Western souvenir markets.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975–1995. The style and 'tarnished' finish are typical of mid-to-late 20th-century home decor imports.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Global Village' era of home decor where hand-crafted items from the East became ubiquitous in Western middle-class homes during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible wear to the 'silver' coating; spotting and pitting on the lower bulbous section where the base metal is beginning to oxidize. No major dents visible, but surface scratches are present.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. These are common thrift store items with high decorative value but very low investment or precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver polish or dips, as they will remove the grey/black decorative coating. Clean with a damp cloth; if the brass is tarnished, a Q-tip with brass cleaner can be used carefully on the yellow areas only.
Similar Pieces
Kashmiri copperware (usually redder in tone), Aftaba (traditional ewer shapes), and Bidriware (which uses a zinc alloy and silver inlay, holding much higher value).
Interesting Facts
The city of Moradabad in India is the largest producer of this specific type of metalware in the world; it has been the center of the brass industry since the 19th century.