Description

This finely crafted rectangular sandalwood presentation box is decorated throughout with intricate sadeli micro-mosaic inlay, a hallmark of the luxury woodworking tradition of Vizagapatnam during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The lid is centered on a dramatic radiating starburst composed of alternating sandalwood and ivory (or bone) veneered segments embellished with geometric sadeli mosaic roundels. The sides continue the decoration with alternating veneered panels and matching mosaic medallions, creating a unified geometric design around the entire box. Produced for the colonial luxury and export market, boxes of this type represent some of the finest decorative arts made in southern India, combining exceptional precision with striking visual effect.

Condition

Good antique condition. The box retains its original form with an attractive aged patina. The central circular ivory (or bone) roundel that originally completed the starburst design on the lid is now missing, and replaced with a modern substitute. There are also minor age-related losses, small veneer separations, isolated inlay losses, light surface wear, and scattered abrasions consistent with age and use. Despite these issues, the sadeli decoration remains substantially intact, and the box displays very well.

Provenance

Acquired through the UK art trade, 2000s; thereafter in private collection, NY.

References

Amin Jaffer, Furniture from British India and Ceylon. Victoria and Albert Museum, 2001.

Amin Jaffer, Made for Maharajas: A Design Diary of Princely India. V&A Publishing, 2006.

Susan Stronge, The Arts of the Sikh Kingdoms. Victoria and Albert Museum, 1999.

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