An Indo-Portuguese colonial tortoiseshell veneered wooden casket with silver mounts
India, probably made in Gujarat for Portuguese Goa, late 17th/early 18th century
The tortoiseshell laid over gold foil, and the interior with red lacquer and possibly later added red fabric.
H. 14 x W. 19.6 x D. 10.5 cm
Often, caskets like the one present are attributed to Goa in India, the most important Portuguese trade post in Asia. However, no sources are known that speak of any artisans or the production of luxury goods on a large scale in the city. This means that it is more likely that Portuguese merchants would travel to places like Gujarat to place orders or that Indian merchants would visit Goa.
The tortoiseshell laid over gold foil, and the interior with red lacquer and possibly later added red fabric.
H. 14 x W. 19.6 x D. 10.5 cm
Often, caskets like the one present are attributed to Goa in India, the most important Portuguese trade post in Asia. However, no sources are known that speak of any artisans or the production of luxury goods on a large scale in the city. This means that it is more likely that Portuguese merchants would travel to places like Gujarat to place orders or that Indian merchants would visit Goa.
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