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Antique Collection India, a country with rich history and traditions, which is evident not only in its buildings and books, but also in its architecture, culture, lifestyle, food and what not! But did you know that you can own a piece of its rich history?Yes! It is possible! Thanks to Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection that would not only be making you discover the treasures of India’s rich heritage, but also would make you experience the splendour of India’s rich antiquity. Handcrafted by the finest Indian artisans, our Antique Collection is the reminiscent of the rich past which has been kept alive by them. Right from the Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl to Indian National Flag, our Antique Collection bears witness to the historical phases India has underwent. Our Antique Collection makes you unearth the past in the pursuit of embracing beauty. So what are you waiting for? Explore Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection today! Historical Collections Now Discover the Treasures of India’s with the Historical Collections of Peepul Tree. Our Historical Collections enable you to unveil the majesty of Indian Antiques. Handcrafted, eco-friendly and sustainable, our Historical Collections make the patron step into the Timeless World of Indian Antiques. Varying not only in their source materials and the products, our Historical Collections offer you a wide range of historical phases, that India underwent. Visit Peepul Tree to get the finest of its Historical Collections. Antique Pieces Those were the rare days, when owning Antique Pieces were mostly far from reality. But did you know that you can now actually own Antique Pieces in just one Click? At Peepul Tree, you can now own Antique Pieces ranging from different regions of India, source materials, that belong to different historical eras too! Be it the Periplus Of The Erythraean Sea Map from the Ancient Era to the Preamble of the Indian Constituion of the Modern Era, Peepul Tree offers you the finest of the exquisite Antique Pieces that would make you own a piece of India’s rich history! Antique Collection Online Now give a new dimension to your shopping of Antique pieces. Visit Peepul Tree and explore its Antique Collection Online. With our Antique Collection Online, you can journey through centuries, through which you not only embrace elegance of Indian Antiques, but also elevate your home decor too. The products offered by Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection Online enable you to discover the soul of India, making you embark on an antique adventure, also preserving History, and celebrating Culture. So what are you waiting for? Explore the best of Antique Collection Online only at Peepul Tree! F.A.Q.’s1. What are the care instructions taken for Peepul Tree’s Antique collection?For metallic objects under Peepul Tree’s Antique collection , for maintaining the sheen, clean regularly with a soft dry cloth. Keep away from moisture and abrasive cleaning agents. These handcrafted products that may have sharp edges. For silver objects, rub with coconut oil if heavily tarnished. 2. Why Should I purchase Antique products from Peepul Tree?At Peepul Tree, one discovers the allure of owning antique products - a captivating journey through time and history awaits you. When considering the purchase of these cherished relics on our website, one is immediately drawn to the following compelling reasons:Timeless Beauty: Pur antique products boast an unparalleled beauty that transcends the ever-changing trends of modern times. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these pieces exude a sense of elegance, sophistication, and charm, making them stand out as unique additions to any space.Rich Heritage: Each antique product carries a fascinating story, a window into the past that connects us to the generations that came before us. Owning such items allows us to become custodians of history, preserving and cherishing the cultural heritage that shaped our world.Unmatched Craftsmanship: In an age when mass production reigns supreme, antique products represent a tribute to the skilled craftsmanship of yesteryears. These items were meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who poured their hearts and souls into creating enduring masterpieces.Investment Value: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Peepul Tree’s antique products are true valuable investments. As time passes, rare and sought-after pieces often appreciate in value, making them not only a source of joy but also a smart financial decision.Eco-Friendly Choice: Choosing antique products is an eco-conscious decision. By purchasing items that have stood the test of time, we reduce the demand for new manufacturing, thus minimizing the environmental impact of consumerism.Unique Character: Unlike mass-produced contemporary items, antique products possess a distinct character and soul. The slight imperfections and patina they acquire over time add to their allure, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.Emotional Connection: Owning an antique product can evoke nostalgic feelings and create a sense of wonder. These items often carry sentimental value, having been passed down through generations or acquired during significant moments in history. Conversation Starters: Antique products are excellent conversation starters. Their history and provenance can spark engaging discussions, encouraging the sharing of stories and knowledge among friends and family.Curating a Personal Collection: Collecting antique products can become a fulfilling and passionate hobby. As you acquire pieces from Peepul Tree that resonate with you, you begin to curate a personal collection that reflects your taste, values, and interests.Support for Heritage Preservation: By purchasing antiques from Peepul Tree, you contribute to the preservation and conservation of historical artifacts. Supporting antique dealers, collectors, and museums helps ensure that these treasures remain accessible for future generations to appreciate.In conclusion, purchasing antique products from Peepul Tree is not merely a transaction; it is an enriching experience that connects us to our past, enriches our present, and leaves a lasting legacy for the future. Embrace the allure of antiquity and embark on a captivating journey through time with these treasured pieces.

<h1>Antique Collection</h1>
India, a country with rich history and traditions, which is evident not only in its buildings and books, but also in its architecture, culture, lifestyle, food and what not! But did you know that you can own a piece of its rich history? Yes! It is possible! Thanks to Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection that would not only be making you discover the treasures of India’s rich heritage, but also would make you experience the splendour of India’s rich antiquity. Handcrafted by the finest Indian artisans, our Antique Collection is the reminiscent of the rich past which has been kept alive by them. Right from the Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl to Indian National Flag, our Antique Collection bears witness to the historical phases India has underwent. Our Antique Collection makes you unearth the past in the pursuit of embracing beauty. So what are you waiting for? Explore Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection today! 
<h2>Historical Collections</h2>
Now Discover the Treasures of India’s with the Historical Collections of Peepul Tree. Our Historical Collections enable you to unveil the majesty of Indian Antiques. Handcrafted, eco-friendly and sustainable, our Historical Collections make the patron step into the Timeless World of Indian Antiques. Varying not only in their source materials and the products, our Historical Collections offer you a wide range of historical phases, that India underwent. Visit Peepul Tree to get the finest of its Historical Collections. 
<h2>Antique Pieces</h2>
Those were the rare days, when owning Antique Pieces were mostly far from reality. But did you know that you can now actually own Antique Pieces in just one Click? At Peepul Tree, you can now own Antique Pieces ranging from different regions of India, source materials, that belong to different historical eras too! Be it the Periplus Of The Erythraean Sea Map from the Ancient Era to the Preamble of the Indian Constituion of the Modern Era, Peepul Tree offers you the finest of the exquisite Antique Pieces that would make you own a piece of India’s rich history! 
<h2>Antique Collection Online</h2>
Now give a new dimension to your shopping of Antique pieces. Visit Peepul Tree and explore its Antique Collection Online. With our Antique Collection Online, you can journey through centuries, through which you not only embrace elegance of Indian Antiques, but also elevate your home decor too. The products offered by Peepul Tree’s Antique Collection Online enable you to discover the soul of India, making you embark on an antique adventure, also preserving History, and celebrating Culture. So what are you waiting for? Explore the best of Antique Collection Online only at Peepul Tree! F.A.Q.’s 1. What are the care instructions taken for Peepul Tree’s Antique collection? For metallic objects under Peepul Tree’s Antique collection , for maintaining the sheen, clean regularly with a soft dry cloth. Keep away from moisture and abrasive cleaning agents. These handcrafted products that may have sharp edges. For silver objects, rub with coconut oil if heavily tarnished. 2. Why Should I purchase Antique products from Peepul Tree? At Peepul Tree, one discovers the allure of owning antique products - a captivating journey through time and history awaits you. When considering the purchase of these cherished relics on our website, one is immediately drawn to the following compelling reasons: Timeless Beauty: Pur antique products boast an unparalleled beauty that transcends the ever-changing trends of modern times. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these pieces exude a sense of elegance, sophistication, and charm, making them stand out as unique additions to any space. Rich Heritage: Each antique product carries a fascinating story, a window into the past that connects us to the generations that came before us. Owning such items allows us to become custodians of history, preserving and cherishing the cultural heritage that shaped our world. Unmatched Craftsmanship: In an age when mass production reigns supreme, antique products represent a tribute to the skilled craftsmanship of yesteryears. These items were meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who poured their hearts and souls into creating enduring masterpieces. Investment Value: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Peepul Tree’s antique products are true valuable investments. As time passes, rare and sought-after pieces often appreciate in value, making them not only a source of joy but also a smart financial decision. Eco-Friendly Choice: Choosing antique products is an eco-conscious decision. By purchasing items that have stood the test of time, we reduce the demand for new manufacturing, thus minimizing the environmental impact of consumerism. Unique Character: Unlike mass-produced contemporary items, antique products possess a distinct character and soul. The slight imperfections and patina they acquire over time add to their allure, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Emotional Connection: Owning an antique product can evoke nostalgic feelings and create a sense of wonder. These items often carry sentimental value, having been passed down through generations or acquired during significant moments in history. Conversation Starters: Antique products are excellent conversation starters. Their history and provenance can spark engaging discussions, encouraging the sharing of stories and knowledge among friends and family. Curating a Personal Collection: Collecting antique products can become a fulfilling and passionate hobby. As you acquire pieces from Peepul Tree that resonate with you, you begin to curate a personal collection that reflects your taste, values, and interests. Support for Heritage Preservation: By purchasing antiques from Peepul Tree, you contribute to the preservation and conservation of historical artifacts. Supporting antique dealers, collectors, and museums helps ensure that these treasures remain accessible for future generations to appreciate. In conclusion, purchasing antique products from Peepul Tree is not merely a transaction; it is an enriching experience that connects us to our past, enriches our present, and leaves a lasting legacy for the future. Embrace the allure of antiquity and embark on a captivating journey through time with these treasured pieces.

Dhokra Metal Handmade Owl Showpiece

Candle Stand in Bastar Wrought Iron | Handmade in India

Dhokra Metal Handmade Harappan Dancing Girl Replica Statue Showpiece

Terracotta Harappan Pashupati Seal Replica with Frame

Bastar Handmade Iron Tribal Forest Tealight Holder Showpiece

Bastar Handcrafted Tribal Art Candle Stand

Terracotta Harappan Bull Seal Replica with Frame

Terracotta Harappan Peepul Tree Seal Replica with Frame

Dhokra Bankura Horse Figurine Showpiece

Dhokra Metal Handmade Ganesha Showpiece

The History Shop

Blue Sparkle Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Rust Coloured Handwoven Cushion Cover

Mustard & Black Handwoven Tribe Inspired Table Runner

Marble Coaster Set with Red Inlay| Set of 2/6 | Handcrafted In India

Desert Oasis Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Hand Embroidered Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runners - Lambani Table Runners in Scarlet

Multi-purpose Wicker Basket From Kashmir

Black & White Handwoven Cotton Table Runner

Red & Black Handwoven Mirror & Thread-Work Table Runner

Lime Green Handcrafted Mirror Work Wall Decor

Handcrafted Home Decor For You

Peepul Tree Bestseller Collection

Explore the ancient tradition and mythological story of Guliga and Panjurli, revered as daivas or bhutas in Tulunadu, as immortalised in the film Kantara. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Tulunadu through this story.

Guliga and Panjurli - The Divine Deities from Kantara

The Divine Deities from Kantara

‘Ponniyin Selvan’ is a five-volume piece of historical fiction written by Kalki Krishnamurthy in the 1950s. Considered one of the greatest works of modern Tamil literature, the novel is still considered a cult classic. Catch the story here

The Real Story Behind ‘Ponniyin Selvan’

This Ramnavami, embark on a pilgrimage with us as we trace Lord Ram's journey across the Indian Subcontinent. From his birthplace in Ayodhya to the scenic Chitrakoot, where he spent time during his exile, we'll visit the many places associated with Lord Ram's life. Join us as we explore the rich cultural and religious heritage of India and celebrate the auspicious occasion of Ramnavami.

In the Footsteps of Ram 

India’s first Republic Day celebrations were far from the impressive show we see today. And guess what? There was no grand pageant on Rajpath. We bring you some stunning details that marked the day India became a republic

What India’s First Republic Day Celebrations Looked Like

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Global Template

The Secrets of Ladakh: A Rare Journey

Dholavira: Tracing the Story of the Harappans

South Asian Masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Revisiting India’s First Port City: Lothal

Join us on unforgettable journeys week after week and meet those who are defining the way we look at history

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Yearly

The Story of Mohenjo-daro

Explore the Story of India Through Objects

The Caves of Meghalaya

Uncovering the Life and Legacy of Dara Shukoh, the Beloved Mughal Prince

Your Gateway to Exclusive History Content one Story at a Time

Trails

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Lost Cities

Pune before the Peshwas 

Tales of Shahjahanabad

Handmade Harappan Dancing Girl Replica in Dhokra Metal

MARBLE INLAY ROSELLE COASTER

Lippan White Wall Mirror

Back in the sixties, flying was so much more than a means of travel. It was a privilege enjoyed by the swish set, who were treated to on-board amenities sourced from luxury brands, wined and dined on in-flight gourmet meals, and were served by cabin crew decked in designer wear. Why, if you flew Air India, and were important enough, you could even end up owning a limited-edition ashtray designed by world-famous artist Salvador Dali!

In the 1960s, Dali was arguably the most famous artist in the world. Primarily a painter, his artistic repertoire, which ranged from the bizarre to the controversial, included sculpture, graphic arts, design, architecture, film and photography.

With his characteristically flamboyant moustache and ostentatious demeanour, Dali, then in his 60s, was showing no signs of slowing down – either in producing art extraordinaire or living the fabled life of an eccentric genius. The Spanish artist lived by his motto, something he had famously said in 1940: “

I try to create fantastic things, magical things, dream-like things. The world needs more fantasy. Our civilization is too mechanical. We can make the fantastic real, and then it is more real than that which actually exists.”

When Dali was commissioned by Air India to design an ashtray for the airline, the words of this eccentric genius did indeed come true.

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seat belts, for this tale is about to get as surreal as a Dali painting.

During the glorious age of flying, the ‘Maharajah’

Air India’s endearing mascot with his oversized moustache, striped turban and aquiline nose – was flying high, real high. In the early 1960s, the airline acquired its first Boeing 707 and became the first Asian carrier to introduce a jet craft in its fleet before it went on to become the world's first all-jet airline. Considering its pitiable, debt-ridden state today, it is hard to imagine India’s national carrier being at the top of the chain when it came to on-board luxury. And yet it was.

In 1967, when top executives of Air India met at an upscale hotel in New York City, the entourage ran into Salvador Dali. The hotel was his favourite haunt. The airline officials invited him over and requested the Spanish surrealist to create something for Air India that they could gift as a souvenir to a select few of the airline’s most-valued clientele. It might seem incredulous today but, in its early years, Air India was a formidable art connoisseur and owned an enviable collection from across the world.

Dali agreed to design a limited-edition ashtray, the first time an artist of his stature had been commissioned to design an 

 for an airline. And he promised them a unique design, which, in his words, would be a ‘Double Imagery’.

And unique it was! Made of white, unglazed porcelain, the body of the ashtray was shaped like the outer cover of a shell. It was draped by a serpent, which was inspired by one of Gala's (Dali’s partner and muse from 1929 when the artist was 25, till her death in 1982) bracelets, the same one she was wearing in the portrait 

that Dali had painted in 1945. The sculptured ashtray stood on three surrealist legs, on one side was a swan flanked on each side by an elephant head.

From the early 1930s, Dali had begun mastering his art of ‘double imagery’, an effect by which, without the slightest figurative modification, an object takes on an entirely different appearance when flipped or turned upside down. The Swan-Elephant ashtray was a brilliant testament to Dali’s genius, where the textures and shapes of the elephant would morph into those of the swan and vice-versa when viewed from different angles. Thus, the inverted swan transformed into an elephant and the elephant head, when upturned, became a swan. Incidentally, the design of the ashtray was based on a work Dali had created in 1937, titled 

As if this wasn’t fantastic enough, there’s more.

When Air India asked Dali to name his fee, he simply asked for an elephant!

To the utterly bewildered Air India officials, he said, 

“I wish to keep him in my olive grove and watch the patterns of shadows the moonlight makes through the twigs on his back.”

The airline executives thought he was joking but Dali was dead serious. And why not? Those familiar with his work would know that elephants and ‘melting’ clocks are the two of the best-known elements in his art. The elephant was a recurring theme in Dali’s paintings, and he often depicted them with elongated, spindly legs carrying heavy obelisks on their backs.

The deal was struck, and in one of the most outlandish exchanges in art history, a two-year-old elephant was flown across from Bangalore to Geneva by Air India. The calf, named ‘Big Baby’ was accompanied by a 

 or keeper. After the Customs formalities were completed and the baby jumbo arrived in Geneva, it was boarded on a special truck for the 700-km journey from Geneva to Cadaques, the small Catalonian town where Dali lived in those days.

, the elephant was delivered to Dali’s residence. After that, he was walked up to a glass stage, while the town’s folk sang and danced in a celebratory mood. The mayor of Cadaques declared a three-day holiday to honour the arrival of the Indian pachyderm. The 

 continued for the three-day carnival that was marked by a colourful procession in the town, which drenched in fun, frolic and festivities over those three days. Pink champagne, Dali’s favourite beverage, flowed freely and guests were served ‘Sherpa Tea’ – a special fusion drink made from wine and Indian tea.

Dali named his newly-acquired jumbo Surus, after Hannibal’s mythical war elephant. The Carthaginian war hero had always fascinated Dali and the Spanish painter had made a watercolour based on the famous conquest of Roman forces by Hannibal in 218 BCE, when he had set out to invade the mighty Roman Empire by way of a little-known overland route through the Alps.

This crossing of the Alps with elephants has remained one of the most remarkable feats in military history, and Dali wanted to retrace Hannibal’s footsteps, albeit without military motives. The story goes that he was seriously considering crossing the Alps with Surus but Gala convinced him otherwise. Surus was spared the trouble and it stayed happily in Dali’s garden till it grew too large to stay there and was transferred to Barcelona zoo in 1971.

Strangely, this remarkable event was not widely reported and was dismissed in a few lines in Air India’s in-house journal. The number of Dali ashtrays varies widely in different reports but it appears that more than 800 of them were crafted by Limoges, the high-profile, France-based porcelain maker. They were gifted to Air India’s valued patrons, including Prince Juan Carlos (later crowned King of Spain in 1975).

Today, these art objects are largely untraceable, lying in private collections. Oddly, it is not widely known that such a collectible even exists. However, a few pieces do appear on online auction sites now and then; your one chance to acquire a Dali, and a souvenir of something even more surreal – a piece of Air India’s glorious history!



Cover Image: Salvador Dali - https://www.artspace.com/

World-famous surrealist Salvador Dali’s work was all about “making the fantastic real” and nothing could have epitomised that more than him designing an ashtray for Air India. Here’s a twisty tale from the glory days of India’s national carrier

Salvador Dali, Air India Ashtrays and a Baby Elephant

Back in the sixties, flying was so much more than a means of travel. It was a privilege enjoyed by the swish set, who were treated to on-board amenities sourced from luxury brands, wined and dined on in-flight gourmet meals, and were served by cabin crew decked in designer wear. Why, if you flew Air India, and were important enough, you could even end up owning a limited-edition ashtray designed by world-famous artist Salvador Dali!

In the 1960s, Dali was arguably the most famous artist in the world. Primarily a painter, his artistic repertoire, which ranged from the bizarre to the controversial, included sculpture, graphic arts, design, architecture, film and photography.