This is an excellent example of a Northern Indian tobacco box dating to the 18th century. These boxes are also called opium boxes. This particular box comes complete with its original iron scraper for accessing the dregs. Opium boxes were owned by wealthy Marwari merchants and caravan traders across Rajasthan. Opium consumption in Rajasthan would have been commonplace amongst wealthier Rajasthanis and these pots would have been used in conjunction with opium kharals for grinding opium before mixing with water, and wrought iron opium retorts for straining the opium. The opium water is then drunk rather than smoked. 

The tradition of growing and taking opium in Rajasthan has existed for centuries and to some extent, it is still used today during rituals and festivals. Traditionally, opium should only be served in odd numbers of helpings; one, three, or five. Opium boxes and opium paraphernalia are excellent collectibles. 

These boxes are rare to find, especially with their original scrapers and lids which are often lost. This piece is made from roheda wood and brass; a higher quality craftmanship. This box is of museum quality. 

Dimensions:

31 x 31 x 9 (wxdxh cms)

References:

Similar examples can also be found in 'Arts & Crafts of Rajasthan' by A Nath & F Wacziarg, page 125.

See Museums of India 'National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum: New Delhi' by Jyotindra Jain & Aarti Aggarwala - Page 49. 

A similar example can be found in the Indian National Museum in Delhi mislabeled as a jewellery box.

From India

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