LONG-NECKED BOTTLE in zinc alloy inlaid with "bidri" silver, decorated on the body with a tapestry composition of geometric motifs and floral garlands. (No stopper; wear; missing inlays). India, Bidar, possibly 18th century. A SILVER-INLAID ALLOY BIDRI METAL FLASK-BOTTLE, INDIA, POSSIBLY 18TH CENTURY. HEIGHT. 24.5 CM (9 5/8 IN.) NOTE An identically shaped bottle with its lid, dated to the 17th or early 18th century, is in the British Museum, London (inv. no. 1978,1230.758) (Mark Zebrowski, Gold, Silver & Bronze from Mughal India, Alexandria Press, London, 1997, cat. 284, p. 191). The decoration of coiled filaments may be an evocation of water. For a study of bidri, see Susan Stronge, "Bidri Ware. Inlaid Metalwork from India", Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 1985.