Indian Plaque Depicting Deities, Based

Three rows of tiny deities, hammered into a thin sheet of silver.

This silver plaque, made in Rajasthan, India, in the 19th century or earlier, depicts deities in repousse relief. Silver plaques of this kind are commonly associated with devotional use, as offerings or as ornaments for shrines. A seated central figure sits in the upper register, with smaller figures flanking it. Below, three framed panels each show a standing or enthroned figure. The silver has darkened to a soft gray with brighter highlights. A black metal stand holds it.

About 6 inches tall. A small picture book in metal.