Antique Teakwood Grain Chest with Iron Accents

19th-Century Galla Trunk from Gujarat, India | Handcrafted Storage Chest with Original Lid & Hardware

Step into the rustic heart of 1800s India with this authentic grain storage chest, known traditionally as a galla, sourced from Gujarat. Handcrafted from solid teakwood and accented with original iron hardware, this practical yet beautifully aged storage piece was once used to store grains, pulses, and essentials in rural homes and community kitchens.

A Storied Chest with Enduring Craft

This antique trunk features a curved, dome-shaped lid supported by heavy iron hinges and a triple-latch locking system—testament to its secure, food-safe function. The grid-style front is dotted with small iron rosettes and pins, originally added for both reinforcement and decoration. Ventilation slots, block legs, and side handles ensured mobility, airflow, and utility—necessary for storing perishables safely in warm climates.

A bold turquoise-blue pigment, weathered over time, lends the piece a folk-art sensibility and makes it a standout decorative feature. The chest retains its original iron wheels, allowing it to be moved easily when filled—a rare survival in pieces of this kind.

Key Features

• Origin: Gujarat, India

• Date: Circa mid-1800s

• Material: Solid teakwood with hand-forged iron hardware

• Finish: Original distressed turquoise-blue paint with worn patina

• Design Details: Dome lid, iron latches, wheels, and side handles

• Craft Purpose: Traditional grain/pulse storage for home or community use

• Condition: Excellent structural integrity with age-related wear and patina

Dimensions

• Width: 110 cm

• Height: 86 cm

• Depth: 65 cm

• Weight: Approx. 60 kg

Why This Piece is Special

✔ Rare surviving 19th-century grain chest with original wheels
✔ Bold folk colour palette and authentic rural functionality
✔ Perfect for use as a coffee table, blanket box, or entryway trunk
✔ Highly decorative and functional for heritage, bohemian, or eclectic interiors

Styling Tip

Let it anchor a hallway or sit at the foot of a bed. Style with vintage textiles, dried florals, or brass vessels for a layered, rustic feel. Its mobile form also makes it ideal for retail displays, boutique storage, or cultural storytelling spaces.

Exclusively available at Regen Bespoke — where every antique carries the warmth of history and the charm of handwork.