Circa 1880s, teak wood, the rectangular case having a front hinged lid with two raised panel relief carved panels surrounded by a reeded border and rosette carved corners, the central reeded divider being hinged and used as a support leg for the lid when in an open position, the case is raised and supported by a rear hinged and braced leg. De Forest conceived his designs and then had them carefully executed by Ahmedabad Wood Carving Company, India, a workshop staffed by Hindu artisans skilled in East Indian traditions.

40.5 x 36 x 21.5 in.

Lockwood De Forest (1850-1932, Santa Barbara, CA) developed completely unique designs which incorporated traditional Indian motifs with functional Western forms and uses. De Forest is, today, considered to have been an authority on Indian design. His period of popularity encompassed less than 20 years, with his few surviving works considered highly desirable and rarely coming to the open market.

Very good estate condition.

$3,000 - 6,000