RARE & EXQUISITE Antique 18th Century Deeply Carved Grapevine Motif Mughal Chest

Description

This exceptional and elaborately carved, heavy wooden chest probably dates to the Mughal period in Northern India and the Middle East. It has been worked in high relief with the grapevine style associated with the height of Mughal aesthetics. From the 1630s on, plant motifs, especially flowers and grapevines, transformed everyday objects including textiles, furniture, and architectural spaces. This piece has the characteristics of Saharanpur master carving. The city in Uttar Pradesh has been recognized as the epicenter of wood carving for centuries. Today, workshops there continue the tradition, although the quality no longer compares to the authentic antique pieces. I've come across quite a few pieces of antique carved furniture, and this is definitely one of the finest I've seen.
This chest is beautiful but also has a functional design. The lid lifts off, and it has 2 hinged doors in front. One door is stuck and I don't want to break it by forcing it open. There are intricate carvings on all 5 sides. The top is solid but the sides are worked to create openings, like a lattice or lace, to allow for air flow. The bottom has 2 thin pieces of wood; one is attached with hinges and the other is removable. Overall measurements are 48.5" long x 23.5" deep and 18" high. The top extends on all 4 sides and the footprint of the base is 22" wide and 45" long.
There are some minor age-related condition issues, like some wear to the finish (see pics). The wood holding the hinges is also a bit worn, and one corner of the top is chipped (see pics).
This is a very heavy piece. I don't know the type of wood but it is hard and dense. It may be better to ship in 2 boxes, the lid separate from the base, to keep each under 35 pounds. Local pickup is probably best.