Large Persian Marquetry Chest

Superlative, large khatam chest made and sourced in Esfahan, Iran;  once a main waypoint on the Silk Road.

This rare and exquisite Persian marquetry craft dates back centuries but a few artisans continue the art today. Delicate, precisely cut wood, bone and precious metals strips are bondedtogether and wafer-thin slices are taken and laid onto wooden forms.

The chest is partially hand-painted with an intricate pattern, often featured in Islamic architecture, art and calligraphy.

37cm long x 27cm wide x 12cm wide