Introduction

Burmese scroll holders were initially used only by kings and high-ranking court officials. After the overthrow of the Konbaung dynasty in 1882, Burmese silversmiths also started to produce them for private use.

Notes
David C. Owens; Burmese Silver Art. Singapore, 2020. Page 108-109.

Description

A charming Burmese manuscript holder. It is made entirely of silver, worked in repousse and then chased with floral motifs. It opens on one side, with a chain preventing loss of the cover. In the center is a large blank panel that could be inscribed, here left empty. 

The space around the panel is carefully pierced around the designs of bamboo, blossoming plum and a third unidentified plant. Bamboo and plum are part of the Chinese "Three Friends of Winter", winter hardy plants that stand for steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience.

These naturalistic designs and their execution suggest Shan work of Northern Burma.