The tradition of silver and gold covered regal furniture existed in the Indian palaces, particularly in the North Eastern provinces, at least over the last five centuries. Not only were the raw materials in abundant supply but these were also valued as symbols of religious and social purity. During the British rule from the mid 19th century, it became fashionable to emulate this method of furnishing on colonial English style carcasses and designs. A photograph of a pair of silvered thrones and other furnishing, in the Viceroy's Durbar tent, Sangrur 1903, illustrates how respected Indian royal idioms were used by the British governors to impress and instill their authority. The method of covering of carved teak furniture with sheet metals continues today.
COMPARATIVE LITERATURE
Amin Jaffer FURNITURE FROM BRITISH INDIA AND CEYLON, A catalogue of the collections in the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum V&A Publications 2001, see illustration plate 69, page 225.