Antique South Indian hand-painted wooden Samudra Manthan Box – early 19th Century

This antique box with its vibrant hand-painted scenes depicts the Hindu mythological episode known as the Samudra Manthan or the Churning of the Ocean. This ancient tale is found in various Hindu scriptures, including the Puranas.

The surface of the box is a canvas of tactile storytelling. The distressed reddish-brown colour brings the focus on the natural grain of the wood.

Each brushstroke and detail speaks to the skill and artistry of the craftspeople from the late 19th century.

The box has a lid, two subtle hinges at the back, and a metal latch - with small carvings - that secures the box.

This brightly painted versatile box - made by the hand of skilled craftsmen of South India hundreds of years ago - can now be used as a blanket box, or toy box, from a storage trunk at the end of the bed to a small console table, or just a decorative piece.

The hand-painted images on the box tell the story of how the Gods and Demons churned the ocean of milk to create the nectar of immortality. The box is a reminder of the power of cooperation and conflict, and the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.

An eye-catching and colourful addition to any interior.

Dimensions: Width: 76 cm, Height: 55cm, Depth: 48 cm