Indian colonial inlaid work box, 18th century 1700 - 1750

Unknown artist

BoneWoodIvoryMetalBrass
33 ⨯ 48 ⨯ 12 cm
ConditionGood
€ 3.500

Verkoulen Oriental & European Antiques

• About the artwork
  An exotic (Anglo-)Indian work box made of rosewood and ebony with ivory inlaid floral motifs, 18th century, around 1700-1750, Vizagapatam, India.
  
  Dimensions: 32,5 x 47,5 x 12 cm.
  
  This larger document or work box is an example of typical early 18th century craftmanship influenced by the Europeans but also the Indian taste and culture. The brownish with darker veining rosewood is considered as a precious hardwood and perfect to withstand the warm and moistures climate of the Indian ocean region and Indonesian archipelago. The ivory is etched and filled with black lacquer to form a shade on the flower buds. The ‘scrolling vines’ created out of black leaves and stems of the flower are inlaid with ebony wood. The top lid had four studded floral rosettes, and the sides of the box have brass handles. The front is also provided with an elegant brass lock plate and a key. On the inside we can find several compartments to store writing materials.
  
  Vizagapatam was a fundamental center for production of luxurious objects exported to Europe and other ports. It was a part of Madras Presidency (the administrative divisions of Madras, province of British India with St. George fort) from the 17th century till the independence in 1947. The first written reference to ivory inlayed furniture in Vizagapatam was made in 1756 by Major John Corneille, who noted that the area was known for the quality of its Chintz (processed fabric), which is “esteemed the best in India for the brightness of its colours”, and that "the place is likewise remarkable for its inlay work, and justly for they do it to the greatest perfection". The British East India Company had a textile factory in Vizagapatam from 1668. Eventually by 1768 the British gained control over the whole area. It was a tradition in Vizagapatam to manufacture furniture in Western style, using ivory etched with lacquer inlaid into wood. The decoration they used in Vizagapatam was inspired from the Mughal culture. Even though the British had control over Vizagapatam and other regions, objects produced in Vizagapatam during the 18th century were also made for company officials from Holland as wel as the European market.
  
  Condition: Good, some wear to the inlay work.
  For a similar example mounted on a later stand, see: Christie's 17 February 2016, Live auction 12033, lot nr. 267.
  
  NOTE: Please note that the shipping time takes longer for this object, because the need of CITES-Documents for export!
• About the artist

  It might happen that an artist or maker is unknown.

  Some works are not to be determined by whom it is made or it is made by (a group of) craftsmen. Examples are statues from the Ancient Time, furniture, mirroirs, or signatures that are not clear or readible but as well some works are not signed at all.

  As well you can find the following description:

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  •“Manner of ….” In their opinion a work in the style of the artist but of a later date

  •“After ….” In their opinion a copy (of any date) of a work of the artist

  •“Signed…”, “Dated….” or “Inscribed” In their opinion the work has been signed/dated/inscribed by the artist. The addition of a question mark indicates an element of doubt

  •"With signature ….”, “With date ….”, “With inscription….” or “Bears signature/date/inscription” in their opinion the signature/ date/ inscription has been added by someone other than the artist

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