Indian Swing with Ornamental Pillars & Canopy

Two carved columns, a roof of its own, and a seat that never quite sits still.

This swing with ornamental pillars and canopy comes from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, late 19th century, in teak wood with metal hardware. Hanging swings have long been a beloved feature of homes in Gujarat, and in temples they can also carry images of deities. Fluted columns rise from stepped bases to heavy carved brackets beneath a broad flat canopy. Long chains drop from the canopy to a railed bench lined with turned spindles. The columns look darker and rougher than the paler seat. Nearly ten feet long at 116 inches and 91 inches high.

It is hard to stay cross on a swing.