Painted Teak Book Stand From Bikaner - 19thC Side Tables Used for the storage of

Used for the storage of liquids such as wine

are constructed from paulownia wood (tong mu / 桐木) Paulownia trees were often planted at the birth of a daughter and were considered symbols of prosperity

the heat of friction softening the lac and coating the wood

The front features a glazed door allowing the contents to be displayed while remaining protected

Painted Teak Book Stand From Bikaner - 19thC Side Tables Used for the storage ofThis elaborately painted Indian book stand is from the Rajasthani town of Bikaner and dates from the 19th Century. Bikaner, which is in Rajasthan is a town that is famous for its fine painting of boxes, furniture, and the interiors of buildings. It has a different decoration on either side. It's a great example of the extraordinary variety of artistic styles reflecting the many cultures that inhabit India. From India 49 x 18 x 49 (wxdxh cms) UK