A rectangular lidded casket carved from deep green jasper with natural veining. Its flat lid is centred by a rectangular epigraphic panel in stylised Thuluth script. Finely engraved and gilded floral arabesques frame the inscription, while the sides are decorated with additional calligraphic cartouches and plant-scroll ornament.
Indo-Persian, with Mughal or Qajar influence. 19th century.
H_4.5 cm L_11 cm W_9.5 cm
Good condition, with minor age-related wear to the stone edges and gilded engraving.
Hardstone workshops in northern India and Persia produced carved jasper, nephrite and agate objects for elite patrons. The combination of calligraphy, floral decoration and gold-filled engraving reflects the refined lapidary traditions of the period.
