Object Notes

This pitcher is an excellent example of the influence of Russian metalwork on American silver design during the third quarter of the 19th century. Russian smiths were famous for work that imitated non-metallic materials such as textiles and wood.

This jade bowl is carved with ferns, reeds, and chrysanthemums—plant forms that indicated fertility to the Chinese. The work is an example of the way in which the 18th-century emperor Qianlong popularized artworks that suggested archaistic forms. 

Ganesha is the child of Shiva, one of the three primary Hindu deities, and his wife Parvati, goddess of love, fertility, and devotion. When he was young, Ganesha kept his father from seeing his mother Parvati in her bath. As a result, Shiva cut off his son's head.

Vishnu is the Preserver of the Hindu trinity of gods. His wife, Lakshmi, is the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Here they appear riding on Vishnu's mount, the bird-human Garuda. They embrace each other lovingly. 

This elaborate necklace is a fine example of a ritual necklace made for a bride among the Chettiar people of Tamil Nadu in south India. At the marriage, the groom would place the necklace around the bride's neck. It was a dowry given to the bride by her family and was seldom worn after the marriage ceremony.