Box - Bronze - Ritual storage chest

This special and authentic Dhokra box is a beautiful example of traditional tribal art from eastern India, notably the regions of Odisha and West Bengal. The object is crafted by local artisans according to the centuries-old lost-wax casting method. Because the clay form must be broken after casting to release the metal, this is a unique and unreproducible artwork of which no second specimen exists. The box is completely cast from a solid copper alloy of tribal bronze and brass, which is immediately evident from its heavy and sturdy quality. With its compact dimensions of 9.5 centimeters wide, 7.8 centimeters deep and 7 centimeters high, the box has a notably heavy weight of no less than 410 grams.

What makes this lot especially valuable to collectors are the clear traces of authentic handwork dating from the early twentieth century, likely between 1900 and 1920. The box is around all around and on the bottom with a characteristic geometric lattice pattern, built from hand-rolled wax threads. The interior of the lid shows the original X-shaped cross-structure that provided stability to the casting mold at the time. On the outside, the thick, cast-on hinges at the back and the robust, hanging closure ring at the front attest to skilled village casting work. Originally, this type of box served as a ritual storage box or a miniature jewelry box for valuables. The object is in beautiful antique condition with a deep, dark patina that has developed naturally through decades of use. Under the four original feet, small black felt pads have been added later to protect your furniture. This lot forms a valuable and characteristic addition to any collection of Asian art or antique tribal objects.

Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.8 x 7 cm
Weight: 410 g