Indian Dowry Chest (Sandouk) From Gujarat - 19th Century Origin - Persia it's a fine example of

it's a fine example of traditional Indian craftsmanship and shows great skill with the inlay work

These make great lamp tables and are very functional pieces in a small apartment

the heat of friction softening the lacquer and coating the surface in vibrant tones

whether draped loosely over the shoulders

In order to cope with the extreme heat in India

Indian Dowry Chest (Sandouk) From Gujarat - 19th Century Origin - Persia it's a fine example ofThis charming antique teak chest has been made in a hut shape and is known locally as a sandouk. It dates to the 19th century and the style is from Gujarat in Northern India. Traditionally the bride's family had to offer gifts known as dowry to the bridegroom's family if they were to find a good husband for their daughter. Dowry was normally Gold, jewellery, and Silk saris but sometimes brass cooking pots and other family treasures were exchanged.