Old Scratchwork Indian Lacquer Pot From Rajasthan - Early 20thC Wine Tables holding small oil lamps or

holding small oil lamps or candles to illuminate entrances at dusk

These decorative jars were used onboard ships for storage

These antique hand carved stone lamp niches were used beside doorways with oil lamps or candles

The gently domed lid is finished with an incised floral medallion

Old Scratchwork Indian Lacquer Pot From Rajasthan - Early 20thC Wine Tables holding small oil lamps orIndian lacquer pots are true works of art and this colourful lacquer box is an excellent collector's piece. Lacquer boxes are commonly used in Rajasthan and Gujarat for storing jewellery or bindi (the red powder that Indian ladies apply to the forehead). Lacquering is done by the craftsman on a hand powered lathe by pressing coloured sticks of lac against the wooden pot. As the pot revolved, the heat generated softens the lac and a thin lacquer of