Indian Barutdan, Powder Flask With Mother-of-pearl Inlay, 19th Century

Indian barutdan, powder flask with mother-of-pearl inlay, probably mid-19th century.

A very beautiful and exceptionally decorative Indian powder flask, known as a “barutdan,” probably dating from the mid-19th century. This type of object was used to carry gunpowder and could also serve as a richly ornamented personal accessory associated with the culture of weapons and hunting.

The body is made of wood and richly inlaid with numerous elements carved from mother-of-pearl and white material, forming a complex and highly decorative surface. The abundance of decoration gives the object a particularly striking visual character and reflects the refined taste of Indian weapon accessories from this period.

The flask is fitted with two wrought-iron eyelets and suspension rings for carrying. The spout is fitted with a threaded brass ferrule and sealed with a finely carved stopper made of white material.

One side, where the original mother-of-pearl inlay is missing, shows extensive historical restoration. Later inserts of white material, as well as red putty, are visible along the edges. This restoration is part of the object’s history and is visible in the photographs.

Provenance:
Estate Collection of Dr. Curtis S. Morse.

Origin:
India.

Period:
Probably mid-19th century.

Type:
Barutdan / powder flask.

Material:
Wood, mother-of-pearl, white material, wrought iron, brass.

Technique:
Carving, inlay, metal assembly.

Decoration:
Rich inlay of mother-of-pearl and white material with carved decorative elements.

Dimensions:
22 × 18 × 9.5 cm.

Condition:
Very good overall condition. One side shows significant historical restoration, with later white material inserts and visible red putty along the edges. The condition is shown in the photographs.

SKU: C1251