Tinned Copper Paan Box From Kashmir - Late 19th Century

This remarkable paan box from Kashmir dates to the late 19th century and showcases the rich metalworking traditions of the region's Islamic craftsmen. Formed from tinned copper and decorated with intricate repoussé work, the box features an elegant domed profile, a substantial carrying handle and finely worked floral ornament that reflects the enduring influence of Persian and Central Asian decorative traditions in Kashmiri art.

The exterior is richly embossed with scrolling flowers, foliate motifs and cartouches, all executed in low relief across the body and lid. Over time, the original copper-plated surface has worn naturally in places, revealing the silvery tin beneath. This gentle wear has created a beautiful contrast of warm and cool metallic tones, giving the piece a wonderfully authentic patina and a character that can only be achieved through generations of use.

Traditionally used for storing paan leaves and accompanying ingredients, boxes such as this played an important role in domestic hospitality throughout South Asia. Opening the hinged lid reveals an ingenious fitted interior complete with a removable tray, individual containers and small dishes used for storing the various ingredients associated with paan preparation. The interior arrangement reflects both the ceremonial and social significance of paan within everyday life.

Today, this beautifully preserved example makes a fascinating decorative object as well as a practical storage piece. Its sculptural form, intricate repoussé decoration and complete interior fittings make it particularly appealing to collectors of Islamic metalwork, decorative arts and antique curiosities.

• Origin: Kashmir, India
• Date: Late 19th Century
• Materials: Tinned copper with repoussé decoration
• Decoration: Hand-worked floral and foliate repoussé motifs
• Features: Hinged lid, carrying handle, removable tray, internal pots and dishes
• Historical Use: Traditionally used for storing and serving paan ingredients
• Patina: Original copper plating worn in places revealing silver-toned tin beneath
• Condition: Age-related wear and patina consistent with age and use
• Collectability: Fine example of Kashmiri Islamic metalwork
• Dimensions: W24 x D27 x H17 cm