Imposing Indian Chest in Exotic Wood and Wrought Iron

Magnificent chest, Indian in solid exotic wood and wrought iron. 19th century. An old storage chest from Rajasthan or other regions of India, often used in the past as a marriage chest or merchant's chest. It is made of solid exotic wood and richly covered with metal fittings on all its faces. Robust rectangular shape with a slightly domed lid that opens two-thirds of the way and rests on a discreet base. Its front and sides are adorned with studded fittings, forming a regular pattern, here a grid pattern. The corners and edges are reinforced with metal strips. The lid is secured by a double stylised metal clasp on the front designed to be padlocked. Metal transport handles are fixed on its sides. The wood and metal show a weathered patina, signs of use, rustic appearance, testifying to its age and history. The interior reveals raw wood with two storage compartments on each side. There are also two small compartments in the middle just below the lid with removable fronts adorned with fittings. You will also find two traps at the bottom of the chest that open to storage spaces hidden beneath the main floor. These hiding places were once used to conceal valuables, jewellery, or important documents. This magnificent piece of furniture is a stunning example of Indian craftsmanship.