Brass Studded Teak Zanzibar Chest From Surat - 19th Century

This exceptional 19th century brass-clad 'Zanzibar' chest is a superb example of the finest trading chests produced in Surat, Gujarat. Constructed from solid teak and richly embellished with hand-worked brass sheeting, intricate brass studwork and decorative mounts, it represents the remarkable craftsmanship of the Parsi workshops that supplied merchants trading across the Indian Ocean.

Despite their popular name, these chests were not made in Zanzibar. They were crafted in the bustling port city of Surat and loaded onto Arab dhows carrying valuable cargoes including spices, fine Indian cottons, gemstones and other luxury goods. Trading routes connected Surat with ports such as Diu, Basra, Bombay and Zanzibar, which explains why these impressive chests are found throughout the Arabian Gulf and East Africa.

The chest features a spacious interior with its original candle box, while three drawers concealed beneath the main compartment provide additional storage. Brass carrying handles to each side made the chest easier to move, and the removable turned lacquered feet are a defining feature of Gujarat examples, allowing the chest to be transported more efficiently before being raised above the floor when in use.

Beautifully proportioned and richly decorated, this chest makes an outstanding coffee table, blanket chest or statement storage piece while remaining an important survivor from the golden age of Indian Ocean trade.

• Origin: Surat, Gujarat, India
• Date: Early to Mid 19th Century
• Materials: Solid teak with brass cladding and brass mounts
• Features: Brass studwork throughout, original candle box, three lower drawers, brass carrying handles, original lock plate, removable turned lacquered legs
• Condition: Very good antique condition with age-related wear, patina and minor losses consistent with centuries of use
• Dimensions: W118 x D51 x H66 cm
• Weight: 55kg

References:
For further reading see 'The Arab Chest' by Sheila Unwin. Note the similarities with the article pictured on the front cover. 
A similar chest sold at Christie's Auction 'Christie's Interiors - Style & Spirit' November 2013