Tushta, Bidar
Late 19th - early 20th century 
Silver inlay on zinc alloy

The art of silver inlay on zinc alloy flourished in Bidar, Deccan, under the Bahamani kingdom. Influenced by Persian and Arabic damascene techniques and designs, Bidriware was a status symbol in Indian society and tushtas were used by the nobility. This Tushta or a washbasin, adorned with the poppy flower motif, has a perforated lid. It is part of the Bidricollection that was acquired from the famous art collector Purshottam Mavji in1940.