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Bidri Box for Holding Pan

early–mid 17th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 463
This box was probably meant to hold pan, the digestif made of a betel leaf rolled with lime paste and spices. Its robust architectonic form, reminiscent of early Islamic architecture in India, is a perfect foil for the bold rhythms of the arabesque designs that dominate its surface.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bidri Box for Holding Pan
  • Date: early–mid 17th century
  • Geography: Attributed to India, Deccan, Bidar
  • Medium: Zinc alloy; cast, engraved, inlaid with silver and brass (bidri ware)
  • Dimensions: H. 3 15/16 in. (9.925 cm)
    W. 5 3/8 in. (13.6 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Louis E. and Theresa S. Seley Purchase Fund for Islamic Art and Rogers Fund, 1996
  • Object Number: 1996.3a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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Fish-Shaped Box, Zinc alloy; cast, engraved, inlaid with silver and brass (bidri ware)
Fish-Shaped Box
19th century
Carpet with Palm Trees, Ibexes, and Birds, Cotton (warp and weft), wool (pile); asymmetrically knotted pile
Carpet with Palm Trees, Ibexes, and Birds
late 16th–early 17th century
Garden Fountain, Brass; cast in sections, joined and engraved
Garden Fountain
early 17th century
Water Pipe Base, Zinc alloy; cast, engraved, inlaid with silver and brass (bidri ware)
Water Pipe Base
18th–19th century

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