2 Anglo-Indian boxes and a desk – Sadeli Mosaic & Wood Carving - Wood, Mother-of-pearl, Bone - British India Company (1600 – 1858)

Exclusive set of 3 Anglo-Indian chests – Sadeli Mosaic & Wood Carving – With Antwerp Auction Provenance – circa 1880/1900
​2. Description (Part 1)
​A museum-worthy and extremely rare set of 3 matched Anglo-Indian chests, produced during the British colonial period in India (ca. 1870–1900).
​Details of the chests:
​Large writing slope / lectern chest: Equipped with a slanted fold-out writing surface with purple velvet and several storage compartments for writing paraphernalia.
​Medium / elongated casket: Covered with fabric and richly detailed with Sadeli mosaic.
​Small casket / jewelry box: Lined interior and likewise richly decorated with wood carving and inlay.
​3. Description (Part 2 – Craft & History)
​Craft & Materials:
The chests are surrounded by exquisitely refined high-relief woodcarving (executed in Padouk / Rosewood with motifs of flora and architecture). The edges are inlaid with Sadeli mosaic (an ancient technique of fine geometric bone and wood inlay) and framed with bone inlay.
​Provenance / History:
Even more special is that all 3 chests originate from the renowned Antwerp auction of Charles Van Herck & Zoon (P.V.B.A. Leopoldstraat 57, Antwerp). The original auction slips (lot numbers 343, 345, 619) and the vintage auction stickers on the bottom are still fully present.
​4. Dimensions & Specifications
​Dimensions (H x W x D):
​Large writing slope: 9 cm x 32 cm x 22 cm
​Elongated small chest: 6 cm x 27.5 cm x 10 cm
​Small box: 6 cm x 20 cm x 15 cm
​Specifications:
​Origin: British India (Bombay / Vizagapatam)
​Material: Sandalwood / Padouk, Bone inlay, Sadeli mosaic, Velvet
​Quantity: 3 pieces (complete set)
​Condition: Good antique condition with light, authentic signs of aging in accordance with the age (see photos).