Antique Indian Copper Pandan Betel Box, Mughal Revival, Pierced Dome Lid

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Antique Indian Mughal Revival Copper Lidded Box, Repoussé and Pierced Metalwork

An elaborately decorated antique Indian copper lidded vessel, attributed … Read more Antique Indian Mughal Revival Copper Lidded Box, Repoussé and Pierced Metalwork

An elaborately decorated antique Indian copper lidded vessel, attributed to Northern India, possibly Rajasthan, and dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. This distinctive piece combines traditional Indian repoussé metalwork with intricately hand-chased geometric patterns, floral medallions, and pierced ornamentation inspired by Mughal and Indo-Persian decorative traditions.

The rounded cylindrical copper body is decorated with concentric circular rosettes, stylized floral motifs, repeating geometric borders, and finely worked ornamental bands. Its dramatic conical dome-shaped lid features scrolling foliate designs, pierced openwork, and a sculptural turned finial with a contrasting aged metal finish.

The lid is connected to the vessel by two short metal chains, with a fastening mechanism on the opposite side. Inside, the hand-worked metal displays an aged patina, with visible reinforcement plates and traditional-looking fastening elements.

The richly textured copper exterior has developed a warm reddish-gold patina, with darker oxidation emphasizing the recessed decoration and adding depth to the intricate repoussé ornamentation.

This type of decorative covered vessel may have been associated with the storage or presentation of betel preparations, traditionally kept in Indian pandan or paan boxes, although its original function has not been definitively established. Its pierced decoration also recalls traditional Indian incense vessels and ceremonial metalwork.

The floral arabesques, geometric designs, and ornamental metalworking reflect the artistic vocabulary of Mughal Revival, Indo-Persian, and Northern Indian decorative arts.

An unusual collectible example of antique Indian metalwork, ideal for display on a console, library table, or cabinet, and particularly appealing to collectors of Anglo-Indian decorative objects, Mughal Revival antiques, Asian metalwork, and handcrafted copper vessels.

Origin: India, attributed to Northern India, possibly Rajasthan.

Period: Late 19th

Style: Mughal Revival, Indo-Persian, Anglo-Indian.

Materials: Copper with contrasting metal fittings.

Techniques: Hand-chased, repoussé, embossed, and pierced metalwork.

Form: Round covered vessel with conical dome lid, decorative finial, attached chains, and fastening mechanism.

Dimensions: 9 inches high × 7 inches diameter (22.86 × 17.78 cm).

Condition: Good antique condition with surface wear, oxidation, aged patina, and irregularities consistent with age and traditional metalworking. Interior reinforcement plates and fastening elements are visible. Protective felt pads have been added to the underside.

A sculptural and richly ornamented piece of Indian decorative metalwork, notable for its unusual domed silhouette, finely worked surface, and warm antique copper patina. See less