Chip Carved Merchants Box From Rajasthan - 19th Century

This characterful antique Indian storage box comes from Rajasthan and dates to the 19th century. Made from roheda wood, it has developed a wonderfully rich, dark patina through generations of use. The box is particularly distinguished by its extensive chip-carved decoration, with repeating geometric and chevron patterns worked across the lid, front and sides.

The lid is especially decorative, with four large circular carved motifs surrounded by bands of geometric ornament. Hand-forged iron straps reinforce the construction, while iron corner plates, studs, a carrying handle and the original locking hardware add to its robust appearance. Raised on four short turned feet, the box retains the practical, sturdy character for which these traditional pieces were made.

Boxes of this type were used by merchants and traders in the bazaars of Rajasthan to safeguard cash, account books and ledgers. They were also used domestically to hold valuable possessions and could form part of a daughter's dowry or trousseau. Today, its combination of historic function, traditional craftsmanship and beautifully aged surface makes this a highly decorative piece of Indian vernacular furniture.

• Origin: Rajasthan, India
• Date: 19th Century
• Materials: Roheda wood with hand-forged iron fittings
• Features: Extensive hand chip-carved geometric decoration, circular carved motifs to lid, original iron strapping and locking hardware, iron carrying handle, corner reinforcements and four short turned feet
• Condition: Antique condition with age-related wear, marks, losses and patination consistent with its age and original use
• Dimensions: W40 x D29 x H21 cm
• Weight: 3.45 kg