Lot 241: A LARGE INDIAN SILVER MODEL OF A MULTI-DECKED RIVER STEAMER OR GUNBOAT ON A HARDWOOD PLINTH

A LARGE INDIAN SILVER MODEL OF A MULTI-DECKED RIVER STEAMER OR GUNBOAT ON A HARDWOOD PLINTH

A highly detailed solid silver, of a two-decked steamship featuring elements of a luxury river vessel and a naval gunboat. The hull is embellished with a decorative band of stippled texture, a row of circular portholes, and a central applied emblem of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, the National Emblem of India. The superstructure is intricately crafted with fretwork railings and arched windows, some of which are fitted with red and green glass panes to represent navigation lights. The upper deck includes four adjustable searchlights, two crown-topped ventilators, and a single raked funnel. The vessel is rigged with three masts, each bearing a plain metal flag and detailed standing rigging. The main deck is densely populated with accessories, including six lifeboats suspended from davits, two swivel-mounted cannons at the bow and stern, and a bower anchor. The model is mounted on a stepped rectangular dark hardwood plinth. An external coiled electrical cord with a toggle switch and green glass indicator light is attached, suggesting the interior was originally fitted with an illumination system.

L: 56cm