Brass Bound Chest From Rann Of Kutch - 18th Century

This is an excellent example of a Kutchi chest from the Rann of Kutch on the west coast of India. Bound with brass and made from solid teak, it dates from the 18^th century and has a wonderful patina. There are clear similarities with Dutch East India Company VOC chests. 

The mix of styles found on this chest reflects the many influences exerted on India in the 17th, 18th & 19th centuries. The overall style has parallels to the construction of the 'Zanzibar' chests constructed in Gujarat for the dhow trade ships. It's possible this could have been originally made for this purpose. The brass lifting handles are Regency English style. The brass corners are classic indicators of the Kutchi style. 

Dhow chests were used for transporting heavy luxury merchant goods across the Arabian Sea. Many of these chests found their way to the homes of wealthy Indian merchants in Gujarat where they would have been used for storing valuables such as textiles, jewellery, and cash.

This piece has a large central compartment complete with a candle box and chain to prevent the lid from falling fully open. Three drawers run along the bottom adding additional storage.

Dimensions:

114 x 56 x 61 (wxdxh cms)

From India

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