Dutch Colonial Jackfruit & Brass Chest From Ceylon/Sri-Lanka -18thC Rugs traditionally used for storing rice

traditionally used for storing rice

The coal was mixed with lacquer to produce this deep black lacquer

Slaked lime (chunam) paste is often added to bind the leaves

The flowers seen in each of the yellow panels are lotus flowers

Dutch Colonial Jackfruit & Brass Chest From Ceylon/Sri-Lanka -18thC Rugs traditionally used for storing riceThis majestic antique Indo Dutch chest harks back to the colonial days and the 'Spice Wars'. Originally from colonial Ceylon (modern day Sri Lanka), it dates from the middle of the 18th century. It is beautifully constructed from jackfruit wood with ebonised beading and chased decorative brasswork. We love the beautiful simplicity of this chest contrasted with its intricate and flamboyant brass decoration. Doubtless, it would have been owned by a