Teak Rubari Damchiya Dowry Chest From Kutch - Ca 1940's Origin - Miao Tribe The vase is hand-thrown on

The vase is hand-thrown on the potter’s wheel before being individually decorated by skilled artisans in Jingdezhen

Like many things in India these knife sheaths were made for a practical purpose - for cutting grass in the Terai - beautifully carved from teak by Nepalese craft-men in the Terai - 19thC - Seldom used in these times of modern tools

The body is constructed from a nickel alloy

28 x 28 x 30 (wxdxh cms)

Teak Rubari Damchiya Dowry Chest From Kutch - Ca 1940's Origin - Miao Tribe The vase is hand-thrown onThis dramatic Indian bleached teak dowry chest is from the Rabari tribe of Kutch. Locally these chests are called 'damchiya'. It is in its original unpolished condition, chip carved and embellished with geometric design, colourful paintwork and mirror panels. Traditionally the bride's family had to offer gifts known as dowry to the bridegroom's family if they were to find a good husband for their daughter. Dowry was normally gold jewellery and silk