Description

This finely carved sandalwood casket centers on a relief carving of the Taj Mahal framed within an oval cartouche and surrounded by scrolling floral vines inhabited by a pair of peacocks. The exterior is enriched with delicate sadeli (micro-mosaic) inlay of bone, wood, and stained materials forming geometric borders around the lid and sides, a decorative technique associated with luxury woodworking in southern India. Raised on turned feet and fitted with a brass lock, the box combines architectural imagery with ornamental carving characteristic of high-quality export wares produced in Mysore during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The cleanly finished cedar-lined interior and refined execution suggest manufacture for the tourist and export market at a time when the Taj Mahal had become one of India’s most recognizable artistic motifs.

Condition

Very good antique condition. The carved decoration remains crisp with only light surface wear consistent with age. The sadeli inlay is substantially intact, with minor scattered losses and age-related shrinkage visible in places. Small age cracks are present to the underside panel, and there is a narrow shrinkage crack to the lid. The bone corner mounts and turned feet are present, while the original key is no longer extant. The interior has been professionally relined in blue felt, replacing the original lining.

Provenance

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

References

Aronson, Joseph. The Encyclopedia of Furniture. Crown Publishers, 1965.

Jaffer, Amin. Furniture from British India and Ceylon. V&A Publications, 2001.

Lunsingh Scheurleer, Pauline. Furniture from Indonesia, Sri Lanka and India During the Dutch Period. Waanders Publishers, 2009.

Michell, George, ed. Mysore: Architecture and Art of a Royal Kingdom. Marg Publications, 1992.

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