Painted Indian Furniture

Indian Painted Furniture draws on the painted architectural traditions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The collection ranges from rustic open shelves and ladder racks to finely decorated bajot tables, almirahs, painted pithara chests, jharokha frames and console chests. Expect layered colour using traditional mineral and stone paints, hand-drawn borders, floral and geometric cartouches, and timeworn patina on durable hardwoods such as teak and sheesham (Indian rosewood). Our collection merges original antique pieces with contemporary Indian furniture painted using traditional methods.

Our genuine antiques date to the 18th and 19th century and have original painting—and our modern, bold & bohemian furniture, mirrors & homewares are inspired by Rajasthani and Gujarati wall-painting schemes and haveli decoration. Palettes run from soft blues and whites to deep reds and ochres; detailing may be freehand, stencilled or chip-carved, with iron strapping and practical interiors for everyday use.

Explore related pieces across the site: painted Doors & Panels, Trunks & Chests, Mihrab Mirrors and Rustic Shelves.

What you’ll find

• Almirahs & cupboards (Rajasthan/Gujarat): both vintage glazed cabinets and older 19th century painted Almirah Cabinets with sunburst panelled doors, interior shelving, traceable paint layers.
• Indian campaign trunks: brass-strapped storage with painted fascias; ideal as Coffee Tables.
• Bajot / chowki tables: low painted platforms from rustic to finely patterned tops.
• Jharokha frames & door panels: balcony-form surrounds and shutters reused as mirrors or wall art.
• Rustic shelves & ladder racks: straightforward joinery with relaxed, timeworn paint.
• Console & dowry chests: bracketed bases, chip-carving; some with mirrored accents.

Materials, finishes & condition

• Woods: teak, sheesham; earlier architectural elements may include deodar; forged iron/brass hardware.
• Patina: layered colours, edge wear and old repairs consistent with age and use.

How we select & document

• Clear distinction: all antique pieces are clearly labelled. Contemporary pieces are labelled as 'modern' - but all pieces are handmade using traditional skills. 
• Originality first: Every piece is personally sourced by our directors in India. We select on the basis of originality, beauty and rarity with a preference for original or early painted pieces. We prefer vintage and modern reclaimed furniture to have multiple layers of paint.
• Cataloguing: Every piece is catalogued by region, period and wood. Our goal is to include literary references for every antique piece. 

Styling

• Anchor a neutral room with a richly painted almirah and echo a single hue elsewhere.
• Use a trunk chest as a coffee table for storage and display.
• Hang a jharokha frame or door panel to add architectural rhythm and height; layer rustic shelves for easy display.

Care

• Dust with a soft, dry cloth; avoid commercial cleaners and direct heat.
• Use coasters or a discreet glass overlay on high-use surfaces.
• Each piece is restored in our UK workshops and all paintwork is consolidated, however, always minimise handling of friable paint. If in doubt, get in touch with us.