Chip Carved Dowry Box From Rajasthan - 19th Century Round Mirrors or cash from the prying

or cash from the prying eyes of extended family members

the top has been replaced with old wood in recent years

they are colourful and decorative reminders of the days of the British Raj in India

while the opposite face still bears traces of its original dark lacquer

Chests were used mostly for storing valuables such as textiles

Chip Carved Dowry Box From Rajasthan - 19th Century Round Mirrors or cash from the pryingThis lovely chip carved antique Indian box is from Northern Rajasthan and has the original ironwork. It is made from roheda wood, identifiable by its curved planks and dates to the 19th century. These 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. This style of box is often decorated with chip carving