Anglo-Indian rectangular bone and porcupine quill inlaid box

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Rectangular Anglo-Indian style box, adorned with characteristic geometric decoration. The visible front features a structure formed by dark frames inlaid with light dots, probably bone according to the keywords. The central and side panels are made of thin, parallel strips, reminiscent of porcupine quills, as mentioned in the keywords. The whole displays a strong contrast between the dark shades of the frames and the natural, slightly veined appearance of the strips.

The lid is decorated with three successive rectangular frames, highlighted by regular white dots. The strips are carefully aligned, offering a unique visual and tactile texture. The visible front section includes an integrated lock, with no key apparent in the photo. The corners are reinforced by contrasting dark elements, also punctuated with light dots, adding an extra decorative dimension.

The finish reveals a slight patina on the strips, attesting to the object's age and use. There are some natural irregularities in the strips, typical of handcrafted work and natural materials. No engraved patterns or visible inscriptions appear on the shown side.

The entire box is precisely assembled, with each strip fitted into the frame. The inlaid light dots visually punctuate the structure and recall a traditional decorative craftsmanship from British India, often used for making precious caskets or small jewelry boxes or for decorative purposes.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Slight signs of wear and discreet patina visible on the surface. The lock is present, with no visible key. Please examine the photo carefully to appreciate the exact condition of the presented side.

Did you know? Boxes inlaid with porcupine quills and bone were produced in India as early as the 19th century, particularly in the Vizagapatam region, renowned for this type of marquetry. These techniques often combined local materials to create decorative objects exported to Europe.

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Keywords: Anglo-Indian box, inlaid casket, bone box, porcupine quill box, decorative box India, marquetry box, jewelry box, antique box India, lock box, handmade box, bone and quill casket, rectangular decorative box