A rectangular lidded chest as used in India for the keeping of jewelry or as a wedding coffer into which wedding gifts were placed. Originating probably in Rajasthan.
This old jewelry casket is made of wood, has a pyramidal lid and flat bottom. All outer surfaces have been coated red and decoratively painted on top with yellow and black. With lines, spirals, crosses and other motifs. All outer edges are reinforced with decorative nails and with cut bronze straps patinated black because of age. A tree of life motif can be found on the front side of the slanting lid. Two such motifs can be found on the back of the lid and at the hinges. Decorative metal bits are also attached to all surfaces and edges of the lower case. These are partly broken and lost. On the upper ridge of the lid sits a movable cast bronze handle with two eyelets. The original lock at the front side requires repair (the key is missing) and inside the chest and to the right there is a ‘secret compartment’ with a painted lid. A very decorative, charming and elaborately crafted object, with age-related damage, but with the respective usage patina, too. Dimensions: c. 25 cm x 30 cm x 23 cm. 19th century. (ME)

Provenance:
Private Collection of Prof. Dr. Rudolf Leopold, Vienna.

Lit.:
'Aditi', catalogue for the 'Festival of India' in the London Barbican Centre in 1982, ill. 11.