BURMESE SILVER NARRATIVE OFFERING BOWL (THABEIK), BURMA, LATE 19TH CENTURY

An exceptional masterpiece of Burmese silverwork, this substantial thabeik (offering bowl) exemplifies the pinnacle of the "Burmese Silver Age" (c. 1870–1920). Masterfully executed in high-relief repoussé, the continuous frieze depicts a dynamic sequence from the Ramayana (Yama Zatdaw), including the pursuit of the Golden Deer, the abduction of Sita by Ravana, and scenes featuring Lord Hanuman.

The figures exhibit extraordinary volumetric depth against a meticulously stippled ground, framed by lush tropical foliage and an orchid (Dha-zin-gwei) rim. The underside features a rare central medallion of mirrored peacocks—the royal emblem of the Konbaung Dynasty—signifying a prestigious workshop and serving as a master silversmith’s signature.

Ht. 6 in., Dia. 11 in.