vintage Indian silver plated condiment serving set mid 20th-century

A vintage Indian silver (or silver-plated) condiment serving set, likely dating from the early to mid-20th century (c.1920s–1950s).

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The set consists of a fork and spoon, both with elongated handles and beautifully ornate finials in the form of mythical or stylised birds/dragons (likely a peacock-inspired motif, which is very traditional in Indian silverware). The handles are pierced and engraved with foliate detailing, typical of Indian craftsmanship.

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The intricate openwork at the ends is consistent with Kutch or Lucknow silversmithing traditions, known for detailed repoussé and chased silverwork. The dragon-like stylisation, however, suggests influence from Indo-Chinese export silver — it’s not unusual, as Indian workshops often catered to both domestic and colonial markets.

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This would most likely have been part of a condiment or hors d’oeuvres serving set, perhaps for pickles, chutneys, or sweetmeats, reflecting Anglo-Indian dining customs. The long, slim handles are suited to reaching into jars or bowls.

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There is a hallmark or inscription in what appears to be Urdu/Arabic script (not an English assay mark). This suggests either:

1. A local silversmith’s mark (quite common in colonial India — hallmarks weren’t always standardized like in Britain).

2. A purity inscription (sometimes pieces were marked with “90” or “100” to denote silver content).

The absence of standard British-style hallmarks (lion passant, etc.) means it wasn’t assayed through the British system, but likely sold in Indian domestic or export markets.

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The sheen, lightness, and lack of heavy tarnish suggest coin silver or a lower purity silver alloy (around 70–90%), though some Indian silver was closer to sterling. Testing would be needed to confirm.

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Collectors of Indian colonial silver find these serving sets appealing for their craftsmanship and exotic design.

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Some surface wear but no major damage.

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During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Indian silversmiths produced a large quantity of flatware and tableware for both the Indian elite and the British colonial market. These often blended local artistic traditions (peacock, dragon, elephant, floral motifs) with Western dining forms (forks, spoons, serving pieces).

This set sits squarely in that tradition: Western-style cutlery, decorated with Indian mythological/animal motifs.

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Own this remarkable Objet d’art vintage Indian silver condiment/serving set (spoon & fork), with dragon/peacock-style finials, likely made c.1920–1950, bearing an Indian hallmark/inscription rather than a British assay. Attractive to collectors of Indian colonial and export silverware.