Indian Round Lidded Box with Hasp

Dark as a thundercloud, this domed box guards its contents with a heavy hasp.

This round lidded copper box with a hasp from Hyderabad is from Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, South India, and dates to the early 20th century. Round lidded boxes were made for storing spices, betel, valuables and other household goods, and the circular form is easy to make by spinning or hammering. Broad, tapered drum in dark brown, nearly black surface with a hammered surface. The domed lid is banded with incised zigzag lines and topped by a small ring handle, and a riveted latch hangs at the front. It is 10.5 inches high and 10 in diameter.

Built to keep secrets, and probably has a few.