The "Nawab of Oudh - Bride's Sindoor and Kajal Cosmetic Box" presents a rare glimpse into the personal beauty rituals of Indian nobility through this purposefully designed silver treasure. The rectangular case opens to reveal a thoughtfully compartmentalized interior, including a cylindrical silver container for vermillion powder (sindoor) and additional compartments for kajal (kohl) and other bridal cosmetics. Its weathered silver exterior with dark patina bears witness to decades of intimate use, while the understated yet elegant design reflects the refined aesthetic sensibilities of northern Indian aristocracy.

About Artwork: Nawab of Oudh - Bride's Sindoor and Kajal Cosmetic Box

Dating from approximately 1950, this silver cosmetic case originated from the royal Vizianagram family of India, as evidenced by the "LD" initials representing Laxmi Devi engraved within. The box served as a repository for sindoor—the vermillion powder traditionally applied along a married Hindu woman's hair parting as a visible symbol of her marital status—and kajal, the traditional eye cosmetic. Such silver accessories held profound significance beyond their practical function in noble Indian households; they represented both material wealth and cultural tradition, passed between generations of women as precious heirlooms. The compartmentalized interior design reflects the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of aristocratic life, while the patina and gentle wear visible throughout tell stories of journeys taken and ceremonies observed. This functional art piece embodies the intersection of intimate daily ritual and noble heritage, offering contemporary collectors a tangible connection to the sophisticated aesthetic and cultural practices of Indian royal households during the mid-twentieth century.

Nawab of Oudh - Silver.

LD initials Laxmi Devi - Vizianagram.

Sindoor is the red or orange-red powder(vermillion) traditionally applied by married Hindu women along the parting of their hair. It symbolizes their marital status.

These containers can range from very simple and functional to highly ornate and decorative. They often hold cultural and sentimental value, especially those used in bridal ceremonies.

The sindoor dabbi is an important part of Hindu marital traditions. It's often considered a cherished possession by married women. In essence, it's a small, often beautiful box that holds a culturally significant powder.

Dating from around 1950, this silver Sinddor case represents the sophisticated lifestyle once enjoyed by members of the royal Vizianagram family of India. Silver objects held particular significance in noble Indian households, where such precious items served as both practical luxury and symbols of status. The patina and gentle wear visible on both exterior and interior surfaces tell stories of journeys taken, adding layers of historical character to this functional art piece. In contemporary settings, this case could serve as a distinctive decorative element with a compelling narrative of royal heritage and bygone elegance.