Indian Hinged Box with Peacock Motif

This peacock lifts its crest and gazes out at the room.

This hinged brass box was made in Bengal, India, in the late 19th or early 20th century. Boxes like this are often associated with the keeping of betel, spices or small treasures. A peacock is cast on the lid, in a graceful pose, its elongated neck ending in a small crest, and its tail rising in a flat fan to one side.

About 8 inches tall. A keeper of small things, with flair. It gives a dresser a second act.