Height 4.6 cm (1 3/4 in.), diameter 9.2 cm (3 1/2 in.)
LNS 8 HS
With its exterior of twelve curved facets, this hemispherical bowl was carved from a block of rock
crystal. Inlaid with gold and set with diamonds and rubies, the exterior displays a grid pattern and
quatrefoils of alternating rubies and diamonds connected by a pair of curving gold lines. Additional
stone-inlaid elements placed at the top join the quatrefoil lattice to the gold band encircling the lip.
The Mughal school of inlaid hardstones was established during the seventeenth century and
continued for the next two hundred years. Its high-quality products reflect the virtuosity of the
artists as well as the aesthetics of the patrons.
Although of fairly late date, the piece exhibits flawless execution of shape and decoration. Even if it
lacks the grandeur and verve of the seventeenth century pieces, it is a remarkably fine object.
