Silver-inlaid Bidri Bowl XIX Islamic India

Bidri bowl from Karnataka, India XIX silver inlaid with calligraphy weighing 363g.
In contrast to the silver or steel used in other crafts, Bidriware is made from a unique alloy of zinc and copper with silver inlays.
The deep black colour is neither paint nor enamel. It is obtained by rubbing the metal with a paste made from the earth of Fort Bidar, which contains high levels of oxidizing chemicals (nitrates). This reacts with the zinc to turn it black, while leaving the inlaid silver intact and shiny.
Silver patterns are wires or sheets of pure silver hammered into hand-engraved grooves. On the bowl, the silver is perfectly flush with the surface - a hallmark of high-quality Bidri.
The star-shaped medallion on the base is often called the "Asharfi" motif (named after gold coins)
Kashmir-style shapes are a blend of Persian and Indian floral influences, typical of Bahman and Mughal styles.