Antique 18th c Islamic Indian Mughal Silver Bidri Hookah Huqqa

This is an authentic antique Islamic Indian Mughal fine bidri hookah base from the 18th century. It was made in India (Deccan, Bidar).
The hookah is made of a zinc alloy and consists of two parts - a bell-shaped body and a short neck with a flanged collar and a trumpet mouth. The body is decorated with silver inlaid, three-lobed floral medallions amongst a continuous scrolling band of leaves and flowers of variegated shapes and sizes, compactly filling the black ground. This pattern is mirrored above the main field on the shoulder and the trumpet mouth.
CONDITION: Showing its age and use with a beautiful old patina, minor losses to the silver inlaid, slightly corroded on the rim of the mouth and rim of the base, the minor gap around the join of the neck with the body, otherwise intact.
Measurements: Height: 15 cm (5.91 inches). Diameter: 19 cm (7.48 inches).
REFERENCES: "Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India" by Mark Zebrowski. Page 236-237.
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