This globular silver bowl is beautifully crafted with scenes in repoussé work. They depict episodes from Shakyamuni Buddha's life - his birth, his childhood, the Great Departure and Renunciation in the broad central band in-between bands of floral motifs. The plain silver rim is ornamented above and below with a foliage design while the base is decorated with lotus petals.The shape of the bowl is inspired by a monk's alms bowl and is generally reserved for ceremonial purposes.The art of making silverware was practised in Burma for centuries. Scenes from the Buddhist Jataka Tales (Buddha's previous lives), the Indian epic, the Ramayana, and zodiac signs are typically depicted on such silverware.
