Small Indo-Portuguese table cabinet

This table cabinet with a rectangular shape is part of the Indo-Portuguese productions of Mughal influence. Made out of rosewood and ivory inlayed with flowers motifs the exterior has a clean remarkable appearance. The interior has one larger drawer and five other compartments.
The traditional decorative style of Mughal craftsmen draws inspiration from textiles such as carpets and miniatures paintings, reflecting the broader influence of Persian art on the Mughal Empire. Showcasing the refinement of Mughal workshops, the ivory inlayed patterns are carefully engraved to enhance the expressiveness. The local craftsmen in India worked according to the Western models of cabinets but created their own styles of decoration. These cabinets were used to store preciuos objects, spices or writing material. The flap could serve  as a writing surface  They were very essential pieces of portable furniture for Europeans living in India such as merchants or traders living and traveling in Asia

This type of furniture was produced in western India, a historic hub for luxury goods with established trade links to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. While reports differ on the exact origin, it’s likely that multiple centers in Gujarat and Sindh produced items in similar styles using shared methods. Regardless of location, travel cabinets were made in large quantities and sold locally in Europe, where their exotic materials and intricate design were highly prized. These cabinets were often traded through Goa and are part of early identifiable small furniture from Gujarat and Sindh.

Condition: restorations to the interior.
Note: CITES-certificate avaibalbe