Indian Polychrome Mirror-Inlaid Dowry Cabinet on Stand — 50 Shisha Mirrors

A densely worked polychrome dowry cabinet in the northwest Indian folk-craft tradition, consistent with Rajasthani or Gujarati workmanship, dating to approximately 1920. The decorated facade is a tight mosaic of carved and painted wooden panels in red, green, and ochre, punctuated by roughly 50 circular and rectangular glass mirror insets ringed in steel-punched frames — the regional shisha-work that gives these pieces their characteristic shimmer. A battlemented crest rail runs the top edge, with figural finials at the upper corners, pendant drop finials along the base apron, and turned columnar legs — stand and cabinet built as a single integral piece. The undecorated rear and side panels reveal the plain grain of the primary wood clearly.

The double-door front retains its original iron hasp latch. Inside, a single fixed shelf divides the storage space, with a hidden compartment in the lower right interior measuring 4" H × 18.5" W × 12" D — a functional secret-storage feature collectors of Indian vernacular furniture actively seek. Cabinets of this type were made as wedding-trousseau furniture in Rajasthan and Gujarat, holding a bride's textiles and valuables and often passing through generations. The unusual scale, high mirror count, and intact original polychrome set this example apart from the smaller chests that dominate the market.

CONDITION

Good overall with age-appropriate wear throughout and a sturdy structure. Fading, scuffs, dings, and wear consistent with age and use across the polychrome surface; one decorative element is absent, and some glass mirror insets show minor surface loss. The undecorated rear and side panels show honest patina and minor checking to the boards.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall: 52.5" H × 55" W × 21.25" D
• Hidden Compartment (lower right interior): 4" H × 18.5" W × 12" D
• Fixed Shelf Height: 16"
• Mirror Insets: approximately 50, circular and rectangular, glass, steel-punched frames
• Hardware: original iron hasp latch
• Construction: cabinet and stand built as one integral piece
• Origin: northwest India, consistent with Rajasthani or Gujarati folk-craft tradition
• Primary Wood: sheesham (Indian rosewood); species not formally confirmed