Indian Tikka Box, Square with Stupa-Form Lid

Square box with a stepped, domed lid, wearing a chain and a ring.

This square carved wood and metal tikka box with a stupa-form lid, from Kutch is from Kutch District, Gujarat, India, and dates to the early 20th century. Kutch, in Gujarat, has a long tradition of carved wood furnishings, and metal bands or studs are often added to these boxes for strength and decoration. Flat, square box with a low lid built from stacked concentric layers rising to a small ring at the center. A black chain hangs from the front hasp. The surface is dark brown, rough and scarred, with row of tiny notches along the base. It is 4.25 inches wide, 4.75 deep and 3.75 high.

Layered like an onion and just as secretive.