A SILVER GILT PRESENTATION TANKARD FOR LORD CORNWALLIS

KARNATAKA, SOUTHERN INDIA, LATE 18TH CENTURY

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A SILVER GILT PRESENTATION TANKARD FOR LORD CORNWALLIS
KARNATAKA, SOUTHERN INDIA, LATE 18TH CENTURY
Of baluster form on circular pedestal foot with leaf-capped scroll handle, the surface decorated with registers of Hindu deities on a finely punched chased foliated patterned ground, inscribed with eight oval cartouches with copperplate dedication to Lord Cornwallis, lid with zoomorphic and anthromorphic masks and finial of lioness with two cubs, foot with floral and vegetal shapes, traces of gilding on exterior and interior
7¼in. (18.5cm.) high

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Lot Essay

The inscription reads' To Charles Cornwallis Marquis, Governor General of India, AL to, JL, from his Esteemed Friend, Saib Bangalli Sas Gazzaree, of the Mysore Country 1791, born 1791'.

The inscription would suggest that this was a gift given to Lord Cornwallis after his victory over Tipu Sultan in March 1791. The lion with the two cubs could be seen as a representation of Tipu and his two sons. After the defeat of Tipu Sultan in the third Mysore War, Tipu agreed to send two of his sons to Cornwallis as hostages.

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