Description
A wonderfully exotic and visually striking piece, this is made in the style of late 19th-century Anglo-Indian style and is a well crafted example of the Aesthetic Movement’s fascination with the natural world and the artistic traditions of the East. Crafted with exceptional attention to detail, it represents the finest tradition of colonial Anglo-Indian furniture making — where Eastern materials and Western forms were combined to create something entirely unique.
Three sides of the case is clad in richly toned natural bamboo — thick structural canes forming the corner posts and top border, with split bamboo laid in tight horizontal rows across the top surface and sides, creating a beautifully textured, almost architectural surface. The warm honey and amber tones of the bamboo are offset against panels of rich, darker specimen wood on the drawer fronts and side panels, creating a striking two-tone contrast.
The four drawers — arranged in two rows of two — are each decorated with bold applied geometric diamond motifs in contrasting split bamboo, set against the darker wood ground in a pattern that is simultaneously exotic and graphic. Each drawer is fitted with original dark cast iron bail handles of elegant form. The sides of the case are clad in richly figured burled wood panels, adding yet another layer of material interest and craftsmanship.
At 33 inches wide, 17 inches deep, and just 21 inches tall, this is a wonderfully versatile low chest — equally at home as a bedside table, a drinks cabinet, or a statement side table in an eclectic interior.
Key Features:
- Late 20th, Early 21st Century, Anglo-Indian Style
- Natural bamboo cladding throughout
- Burled wood side panels
- Four drawers with applied diamond bamboo decoration
- Cast iron bail handles
- Aesthetic Movement / Japonisme influence
- Dimensions: 33″W x 17″D x 21″H
- Condition: very good
Japonisme, a term coined in 1872 by Philippe Burty, refers to the intense 19th-century Western fascination with Japanese art and design, particularly following Japan’s reopening in 1853.
