The UK government has deferred an export licence application for a rare Bidriware tray dating back to 17th century Karnataka in an attempt to encourage a buyer to keep the artefact in Britain.
UK Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism Michael Ellis blocked the export of the 'Tear Shaped Bidri Tray', made by an unknown craftsman from Bidar and priced at an estimated 75,000 pounds, last month.
"The Tear Shaped Bidri Tray highlights the style, detail and innovation of metalware produced on the subcontinent during this influential period in world history,” Ellis said in a statement.
"When considering its unique nature, it is
