Rubari Damchiya Dowry Chest From Kutch – Ca 1940

This dramatic Indian white painted 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, white 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 saris but sometimes brass cooking pots and other family treasures were exchanged.