Silversmiths from Kutch produced extraordinary works in the metal. Originally Mughal shield-makers who worked in hide and other materials, they quickly transformed their trade into silversmithing as the need for Mughal battle accessories stopped. They excelled at their new trade.

The foremost silversmith from the region was a man called Oomersee Mawji Bhuj who produced hundreds of objects for clients everywhere. From imperial patrons to Europeans headed back, maharajahs, to civil servants, an item from OM Bhuj was the stylish object of the times.

During the famine of 1899, many of these families moved to Karachi and silver from Karachi from the early 20th century also has the same finesse and quality.

Here I share some objects made by Kutch silversmiths, a trade that has since been lost.