Rubari Damchiya Dowry Chest From Kutch - Ca 1920 Material - Coral This is not an antique

This is not an antique

These tansu would have been commission pieces and made for exceedingly wealthy individuals

Decorated with an unusual floral motif on the exterior with a scene of Chinese women boiling silk cocoons on the lid interior

The engravings depict scrolls and flowers on a background of clouds

Rubari Damchiya Dowry Chest From Kutch - Ca 1920 Material - Coral This is not an antiqueThis striking bleached teak dowry chest, known locally as a damchiya, originates from the Rabari tribe of Kutch in Gujarat, India. Over a century old, it showcases intricate chip carved detailing and geometric embellishments, all carved by hand. Once a prized possession in traditional matrimonial exchanges, this piece served both as a symbolic and functional object, storing the dowry treasures gifted by a bride's family. The chest remains in its