An Indian green soapstone lidded trinket box, intricately decorated with floral parchin kari (pietra dura) inlay. The square lid features a central stylized blossom and surrounding buds executed in iridescent mother-of-pearl, vibrant orange carnelian, and black hardstone, set against a naturally veined olive-green ground.

Historical & Style Details

• Subject / Sitter / Source: Floral motif
• Origin: India
• Material / Technique: Hand-carved soapstone with parchin kari (pietra dura) inlay
• Materials: Soapstone, mother-of-pearl, carnelian, black hardstone
• Markings: Small square paper label on the underside with handwritten inventory number
• Condition: Light surface wear, flea bites, and scratches to the underside, interior shows natural stone carving texture and minor white residue, inlay remains intact and secure. Some staining from previous tape.

History

Parchin kari is a traditional Indian art of stone inlay, famously showcased on the Taj Mahal in Agra. Developed during the Mughal Empire, the technique involves precisely cutting and fitting highly polished semi-precious stones into pre-carved marble or soapstone channels. Throughout the 20th century, Agra artisans continued this heritage, producing decorative objects like this box for the global luxury and souvenir markets.