Antique Indian Brass lidded box Pandan chased Hindu Vishnu - 19th C - avatars Matsya Kurma Varaha Narasimha British Raj cylindrical spice 6.8 cm H

A beautifully and expertly hand decorated antique Indian brass cylindrical lidded box with a very attractive and intricately chased and engraved design featuring scrolling foliage, flowers and other decorative motifs. Around the sides of the caddy there are six equally spaced oval cartouches depicting figures of Hindu deities, in a variety of poses, they include Vishnu and his avatars, Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar) and Narasimha or Narasingha (man-lion).

The caddy dates to the mid to late 19th century in the Victorian period also known as the British Raj.  This small cylindrical lidded box, may also be described as a lidded jar, caddy or storage container. It may possibly have been made as a Pandan for storing betel leaves or perhaps for betel lime powder (Chuna).

The lid is slightly domed and ornately decorated with a central flower. The lid is held firmly in place by an internally fitted locating rim that is rivetted into place on the body.

The caddy is 2 3/4 inches ( 6.8 cm ) high and 2 7/16 inches ( 6.1 cm ) diameter, it weighs 118 grammes unpacked and is in excellent antique condition and is very usable. There are some very minor marks and signs of use and signs internally of discolouration and a little Verdigris from being used as a storage container, possibly for spices.