In 1875, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales and future King Edward VII, embarked on a significant tour of the Indian subcontinent. This four-month journey, covering over 7,600 miles by land and 2,300 miles by sea, was a strategic move to reinforce British rule and foster goodwill among Indian royalty and nobility in the aftermath of the rebellion of 1875.
Despite attempts to moderate gift exchanges, Indian rulers and dignitaries responded with characteristic opulence. The resulting collection of gifts became a dazzling testament to Indian craftsmanship and wealth. Among the extraordinary items presented to the Prince were:
1. A Turban Ornament (Sarpech): This exquisite piece features a central large diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, arranged in a floral motif. Typically worn on the front of a turban, it symbolized royalty and status.
2. A Jewel-Encrusted Crown: Entirely covered with precious stones including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, this crown was likely set in gold with intricate patterns representing traditional Indian motifs or royal emblems (Picture described on the top)
3. Gold Inkstand: An enamelled gold peacock inkstand, shaped like a state barge (Maurpankhi), presented by the Maharaja of Benares. It includes 19 pieces such as a penknife, pen nibs, and scissors. Notable details include a gold flag with the Benares crest and a mast inscribed with a dedication to the prince.
4. Peaocock Feather Fans: Peacock feathers adorn a pair of large morchals (fly-whisks), which also served as fans. These ornate fans, set with gold tinsel and inlaid with diamonds, were used by attendants to cool and highlight the ruler, emphasizing his importance.
5. Gold Utensil Set: The prince received a lavish 10-piece gold service from the Maharaja of Mysore, reflecting durbar traditions. This stunning "Service of State" includes plates, trays, perfume holders, betel-nut boxes, and rosewater sprinklers.
6. Ornamented Dagger: Featuring a long blade filled with loose, moving pearls, and a walking stick gun. Initially, an unassuming silver spearhead seems lackluster, but closer inspection revealed the meticulous craftsmanship, with intricate birds and monsters finely cut, pierced, and chiseled into the design.
7. Jaipur Inlay Perfume Set: An attar-dan from Jaipur, a exquisite perfume holder, resembling a lotus flower, rests on a plate adorned with foliate patterns and hunting scenes. It reportedly required five firings and five years to complete.
This collection, amassed in a short period, offers a unique snapshot of the finest decorative work produced in the Indian subcontinent at that time. It spans various crafts, from jewelry and goldsmithery to arms and armor, representing the pinnacle of Indian artisanal skills in the late 19th century.
The presence of these jewels and artifacts in the British Royal Collection highlights the complex history of Indo-British relations. Many precious items of Indian origin now reside in the United Kingdom, a legacy of colonial rule and the intricate gift-giving customs of the era. This collection serves as a tangible reminder of India's rich artistic heritage and the historical connections between the two nations.
Reference Note: Information sourced from Christie's historical archives and auction records as a part of an Exhibition curated by Meghna Jaswani (Gifts by India To a British Prince, 1875)
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