Chip Carved Indian Merchants Box - 19th Century Cashmere heated stone platform used as

heated stone platform used as both a bed and seating area in wealthy Chinese homes

Although a Malabar chest in name

1 x bundle of black rattan reeds

a subtle yet technically demanding detail designed to prevent water from spilling when displaying plants or vases

you can see some original vermillion paint coming through

Chip Carved Indian Merchants Box - 19th Century Cashmere heated stone platform used asThis lovely chip carved antique Indian box is from Northern Rajasthan and has the original ironwork. It is made from roheda wood 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 that is almost identical to European