Torr Antiques & Decorative Arts

Description

This is a stunning brass bound and carved teak Zanzibar chest raised on turned feet from the first half 20th century. Top, front and sides are all beautifully carved with Swahili and Arabic motifs and bordered with rows of brass studs and pierced brass mounts. The sides are provided with brass carrying handles while the top is fastened to the base by means of a shaped and pierced hasp. The lid opens to reveal a candle box and abundant storage space. There are three drawers to the base opened with bail-shaped brass handles and a secret drawer behind the centre and right hand drawers which is pulled out using the drawer divide.

This chest was purchased from an antique dealer in Zanzibar in 1998 and shipped to Johannesburg by a previous owner. We presume this owner must have brought it to the UK in more recent times, so even in its late history this is a well-travelled chest. We have the receipt from 1998 and the Business Card of the dealer, Farid Abeid of Abeid Curio Shop, which will be included as part of the sale.

This chest was probably made in Stone Town in Zanzibar where there was, and still is, a tradition for making carved hardwood chests for the purpose of holding dowries, family heirlooms and spices. We have not encountered a better example of this type of 'Zanzibar chest' in our research to date - the quality of the carving puts it in a category all on its own.

Dimensions: Width 111 x Depth 54 x Height 61 cm
This is a very heavy chest and requires two strong people to lift.

Condition: The chest is in very good antique condition with a nice colour and lustrous waxed finish. There are no losses to the brass work or carving.

Please contact David using the enquiry form or directly by calling 07931 370 372 if you would like to see additional photographs.

Delivery: This chest can be delivered by our trusted delivery man to most places in England and Wales for £70. Please contact us to confirm the delivery cost to your address.