STRUCTURAL FEATURES: It is believed that such trunks are used by workers returning to the Malabar region (between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea) from the Gulf during the 19th century. Originally created by carpenters in India, these sturdy chests are exported to the Gulf from their centres of manufacture, namely Bombay, the Malabar Coast, and Surat. The material is generally dark rosewood or teakwood, replete with metal (usually brass) clasps, hinges and handles. The chest is devoid of legs and sits flat on the floor.

STYLISTIC FEATURES: The vertical fluting lines along the frontal panel are carved into the wood, creating a linear, ribbed geometric pattern. The chest is decorated and strengthened by using vertical metal clasps along the periphery of its front.

Courtesy: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai