Document holder, painted and lacquered papier mâché
Kashmir, India; beginning of 19th century
L: 54; Diam: 7 cm
Inventory number 37/2003
This document holder seems to be unique. Its shape is related to that of similarly lacquered, cylindrical pen cases from the Ottoman Empire. Unlike the Ottoman pen cases, which are much smaller, this document holder has a removable cover on each end.
The document holder’s decoration is typical for Kashmir, where similar patterns are found on e.g. woven shawls. The eight wide bands hold four patterns with a related tassel-like vegetal ornament, which is not, however, repeated in a uniform sequence.
The document holder’s decoration is typical for Kashmir, where similar patterns are found on e.g. woven shawls. The eight wide bands hold four patterns with a related tassel-like vegetal ornament, which is not, however, repeated in a uniform sequence.
Ivory, Wood, and Papier-mâché
