Indo-Portugese Chest From South India - 19th Century

This is an unusual antique Indian chest, it's constructed from forest teak and is from South India. The iron hasps are shaped somewhere between an elephant & an upside down guitar. This shape of hasp is an Indian interpretation of the Portuguese designs. Trunks made from forest teak are usually quite early as many of the teak forests were replaced with teak plantations in the 19th century, leading to more practical straighter grained, more planky wood. The front of this chest is inscribed with the name of a previous owner on the front, this piece has developed a wonderful patina over the years. A sturdy chain prevents the lid from falling open.

Chests like this one would have been used for storing clothes and valuables.

From India

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