Carved Malabar Chest From Kutch - Ca 1900 Material - Elm The exterior is decorated with

The exterior is decorated with detailed gilt painting but the best preservation can be found on the interior of the lid

Two drawers in the middle offer additional storage and can be removed to reveal secret compartments which would have been used to hide valuables away

or a decorative accent

Condition: Worn patina and carvings consistent with age

Carved Malabar Chest From Kutch - Ca 1900 Material - Elm The exterior is decorated withThis beautifully carved Indian chest is known as a Malabar chest and dates to the middle of the 19th century. It is made from solid rosewood and bound with brass. These chests were used as dhow trade chests for transporting spices like pepper and cloves, Indian cotton, and gemstones. The main trade hubs were Diu, Surat, Basra, Zanzibar & Bombay. Although a Malabar chest in name, this style of chest was likely made in Kutch in Gujarat. The carving is