Rosewood Brass Studded ‘Zanzibar’ Chest – 19th Century

This 19th-century rosewood chest was made in the Rann of Kutch, the principal production centre for the studded trade chests used along the Indian Ocean dhow routes. Crafted from dense rosewood and decorated with traditional brass studs, it belongs to the group widely known as Zanzibar chests, reflecting their circulation through ports including Kutch, Diu, Surat, Bombay, Muscat, Basra, and Zanzibar. These chests transported high-value goods such as spices, textiles, ivory, and pearls.

The exterior displays classic Kutch patterns of concentric roundels and geometric studwork, reinforced with brass corner mounts and straps. The sides retain iron lifting handles, and the interior contains the characteristic candle box. Its patinated rosewood and worn brasswork reflect its long use within 19th-century maritime trade.

• Origin: Rann of Kutch, Western India
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Rosewood with brass studs and mounts; iron lifting handles
• Features: Brass studwork; concentric roundels; reinforced corners and straps; interior candle box; rich patina
• Condition: Age related wear, patination, and surface marks consistent with historic use
• Dimensions: Width 65 × Depth 40 × Height 40 cm

A well preserved example of a Kutch rosewood trade chest from the Indian Ocean dhow networks.

References

Further information on Zanzibar chests can be found in Unwin, Sheila. The Arab Chest. 3rd ed., 2006, pp. 100–103.