19th C, Anglo-Indian Turned Teak and Ebonized Wood Basket on Acorn Feet

Details

Description

Late 19th to Early 20th Century Anglo-Indian Turned Teak and Ebonized Wood Basket on Feet
British Colonial, likely Madras Presidency … Read more Late 19th to Early 20th Century Anglo-Indian Turned Teak and Ebonized Wood Basket on Feet
British Colonial, likely Madras Presidency (Chennai region), circa 1880–1920

A finely turned and constructed Anglo-Indian pedestal fruit or nut basket, composed of richly grained teak wood and ebonized hardwood spindles, raised on three knob-turned legs. The form is a distinctive hybrid of British Regency and South Indian craftsmanship, reflecting the cross-cultural design vocabulary typical of Madras and other major woodworking centers of the British Raj during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The basket is circular in plan, with a wide flared rim turned from a single piece of solid hardwood. The conical body is formed by a series of evenly spaced, ebonized dowel spindles, which radiate inward to meet a raised turned roundel base. The entire structure is elevated on three carved and turned feet—each in the form of a stylized bun or club foot—painted black and set at an outward cant, contributing both visual balance and structural elevation. The underside is also carefully turned, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and finish, even in hidden areas.

These types of hybrid forms—incorporating English aesthetic traditions (in this case the Regency-period fondness for turned wares and fretwork) with South Indian woodturning skill—were commonly made for export or for use by colonial officials stationed in India. The choice of woods, particularly teak and tropical hardwoods (such as rosewood or blackwood), was typical of Madras and Travancore workshops, which also produced a wide array of turned furniture, sewing stands, spice caddies, and gentleman’s accessories during this era.

Measures:

9.875" w x 6.375" h See less