Brass Bound Indian Merchants Box - 19th Century

These Indian boxes were used in the old days by merchants and traders in the bazaars for storing their cash and ledgers. They were also used by Indian families for the dowry of their daughters, as a trousseau (bridal clothes & jewellery). Locally, these boxes were called peti (casket). The body of the box is constructed from roheda wood which is bound with iron and brass. 

The brass work is delicately hand beaten, etched, and chased with a repeatingpattern. Between the 17th & 19th centuries, the Marwari merchants of Shekhawati grew incredibly wealthy from taxing traveling caravans. 

Exceptionally well made, these boxes make great keepsake or trinket boxes. You can store everything from TV remotes to knitting in them. This one has developed a wonderful patina over time.