Brass Studded 'Zanzibar' Chest From Kutch - 19th Century Material - Kair Wood Chests and boxes from India

Chests and boxes from India are found in an extraordinary variety of styles reflecting the many cultures that influenced India and were used for storing valuables such as textiles

The central front panel lifts away to allow the release of the two flanking panels

This table is crafted from northern elm wood (yumu 榆木) which has developed a beautiful patina over time

a hole in the top has been expertly patched in the form of a red pepper

this piece works beautifully as a bedside cabinet

Brass Studded 'Zanzibar' Chest From Kutch - 19th Century Material - Kair Wood Chests and boxes from IndiaThis Indian teak chest dates to the 19th century and is an excellent example of a 'Zanzibar chest'. These chests were made in The Rann of Kutch and used as dhow trade chests for transporting spices like pepper and cloves, Indian cottons, gemstones. The main trade hubs were Diu, Surat, Basra, Zanzibar & Bombay. The chest is decorated with brass studs and corners. It has brass lifting handles on the sides. As a trading chest, this piece has had a tough