Papier Mache Appraisal

Kashmiri Hand-Painted Papier-Mâché Floral Box

This is a small, ornate decorative box, likely of papier-mâché or a similar lightweight material, exhibiting a distinctive Kashmiri floral motif. The box has a rounded, slightly oblong or oval shape with a fitted lid. Its primary color scheme is dark green for the background, lavishly adorned with a dense pattern of colorful flowers and foliage. Prominent colors in the floral design include vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, creams, and various shades of pink and blue, accented with gold details to outline petals and leaves, adding a sense of luxury and depth. The overall craftsmanship suggests a hand-painted application, with slight variations in brushstrokes and pigment density visible, indicative of artisanal work. The surface appears to have a protective lacquer or varnish finish, giving it a somewhat glossy appearance. Visible condition issues include areas of apparent wear or chipping, particularly along the edges and corners of both the lid and the base, exposing what might be the substrate material or an undercoat. There are also signs of crackling or crazing in the painted surface, especially noticeable in lighter-colored floral elements, which is typical for older, lacquered items and contributes to its patina. The item's construction appears solid for its type, suggesting good, though not necessarily heavy-duty, craftsmanship. Based on the partial tag mentioning "...ffer Ali Artist, ...sanadbad Srinagar, India," it is a product of Indian craftsmanship, specifically from Srinagar, which is renowned for its papier-mâché and hand-painted artistry. The style is classic Kashmiri floral, characteristic of the region's decorative arts, suggesting it could be mid to late 20th century or earlier, depending on the specific artist and techniques used.