A painted chest and stand, Bareilly, North India, circa 1850

the wood body of rectangular form with hinged cover supported on a separate X-shaped stand with four legs of foliate openwork form with scrolls and palmettes flanking a central quatrefoil, the surface painted in black and gold and varnished with a craquelure effect, the sides with a central rectangular panel with seated figures listening to music alongside pagodas amidst a leafy glade of willow, palm and lily ponds, bordered by sprays of lotus and serrated leaves

minor abrasions to surface, particularly to lid and extremities of feet, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Clearly influenced by Chinese export furniture, this chest is typical of the painted and varnished furniture that was produced in the north Indian city of Bareilly during the nineteenth century. A similar chest is in the Victoria and Albert Museum, see Jaffer 2001, p.270.