A rare and highly unusual early 20th century Anglo ? Indian silver figural rose water sprinkler or scent diffuser, Cutch, Bhuj circa 1920, marked LG (untraced)

Raj period. The baluster body upon a domed pedestal stem with a central knop. The upper section with a screw threaded detachable rising pedestal to a cast figure of Krishna, playing his flute, besides two cows. The front with a pull out small cylindrical box section with a hinged lid with finial, the reverse with a flower headed push action pump. The body with chased decoration of a palace within lobed section topped with architraves, interspaced with chased foliate scrolls and rosettes. The base with chased foliate scrolls, below a leafy junction. The foot rim marked L.G. in a rectangle, 100 within a heart and BHUJ.

Height ? 28 cm / 11 inches

Weight ? 807 grams / 25.95 ozt

This highly unusual and interesting item has presently defied disclosing a precise function, when filled with a liquid the push section does raise the level upwards. The screw thread of the figure of Shiva has a slim tube, which may link to a small hole underneath the shaped leafy section that Shiva stands upon, although this may be blocked. The removable small box to the front has not been concluded on its function. It is possible that this item worked as a perfume diffuser for scenting a room. The presumed maker L.G is not identified with any known Bhuj craftsman, and these marks have not been recorded on any published piece yet. The fine workmanship and deeply sculptural quality of this item would demarcate this maker as of high quality and interesting wares.