Iron Bound Teak Merchant Chest From Goa - 19th Century

This wonderfully patinated antique South Indian teak chest is made in the traditional Goan style and dates to the 19th century. It is made from large planks of forest teak wood and is mounted on wheels. 

Merchants used these chests to store valuables; textiles, jewelry, dowry, or cash. Goa was a Portuguese colony from 1510 and the main anchorage for Portuguese armada ships and merchants. 

Merchants in Goa dealt predominantly in Madeira wine, books, firearms & Tobacco. Items such as silks, Indian textiles & spices were all exported back to Europe from Goa. 
 
The chest interior has ample central storage space and various smaller compartments on the left side including a box used for storing candles. A sturdy chain prevents the lid from falling completely open. A small drawer adds for additional storage and a crucifix is inlaid onto the front centre. Chests like these would have needed to survive the hardships of day to day life in India, helped by the iron bindings and handles which reinforce the frame of this chest.

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