Teak Merchants Box From Rajasthan - 19th Century

These old Indian boxes were used in the old days by merchants and traders in the bazaars for storing their cash and ledgers. They were also used by Indian families for the dowry of their daughters, as a trousseau (bridal clothes & jewellery). Locally, these boxes were called peti (casket). The body of the box is constructed from roheda wood which is bound with brass.

 

The lid of this box is beautifully chip carved and delicately hand-beaten brass work. The corners and sides are decorated with a repeating leaf motif. This box dates to the 19^th century. 

Between the 17^th & 19^th centuries, the Marwari merchants of Shekhawati fostered a close relationship with the East India Company and grew incredibly wealthy from taxing traveling caravans. 

 

Sturdy and well made, these boxes make great keepsakes or trinket boxes. You can store everything from TV remotes to knitting in them. This one has developed a wonderful patina over time. 

From India

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