Anglo-Indian Book Slide, w/ Ivory, Sadeli Mosaic, Carving c.1860

Antiques : Anglo Indian : Sadeli Mosaic

 

Rare and very fine Anglo-Indian extendable book slide made in the Bombay Presidency in the mid-19th century for a British market. There is intricate, detailed carving at the base of the slide and on the side pieces. At the center of the base is an elephant flanked by dragons on either side and flowers throughout. The carving on the side pieces is of dragons and flowers matching those on the base. The base is framed with several rows of pewter dots and sadeli mosaic, both internally at the sliding portion and around the exterior of the whole base. The vertical sections have ivory stringing with sadeli roundels, and are finished with ivory finials at the top. When closed, the piece measures 12.25" by 5.9" and the end pieces stand 5.5" tall at the highest point. The slide comes all the way out of the piece, but its maximum useful length when extended is approximately 20".

The carving is deep, crisp and superb throughout. There is no loss of sadeli, no cracks or splits or warping. The sliding mechanism is smooth, without warping.

A rare piece, especially in such beautiful condition.

Item ID: H-000028