A Fine Small Indo-Portuguese Inlaid Wooden Table Cabinet

A Fine Small Indo-Portuguese Inlaid Wooden Table Cabinet

Origin: Gujarat or Sindh, Northwest India
Period: Circa 17th Century
Materials: Ebony, Teak, Thin-Sliced Ivory, Sadeli Micro-Mosaic (Stained Ivory, Brass, and Ebony).

This exquisite small table cabinet, a fine example of Indo-Portuguese artistry, features a beautifully veneered surface crafted from exotic woods like ebony and teak. The cabinet is adorned with intricate Sadeli micro-mosaic marquetry, combining thin slices of ivory, stained ivory, brass, and ebony, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of 17th-century Gujarat or Sindh.

Exterior Details:

• The cabinet’s front is elaborately inlaid with geometric patterns, including hexagonal star motifs and roundels, each featuring intertwined designs and lozenges. The borders are enriched with alternating micro-mosaic scrollwork and ivory palmettes.
• The three drawers—one large upper drawer and two smaller lower drawers—are fitted with functional locks and keys, with each lock framed by stylized openwork brass plaques for both functional and decorative purposes.

Top Decoration:

The top of the cabinet is highlighted by a central medallion crafted from ebony, intertwined with a larger rosewood medallion. This design is bordered by a rectangular ebony frame, inlaid with parallel ivory cartouches for a striking visual effect.

Sides and Back:

• The sides and back feature rectangular picture-frame-style borders veneered in ebony, with thin parallel ivory inlays. Brass handles are mounted centrally on each side for ease of handling.
• The cabinet stands on four later-added 19th-century bronze feet shaped like openwork leaves.

This unique table cabinet combines functionality with intricate Indo-Portuguese design elements, making it a perfect addition for collectors and enthusiasts of historic furniture.

The table cabinet is a fusion of Indian and Portuguese aesthetics, paired with its compact elegance, ensures it stands out as a timeless masterpiece.