Vintage Red Lacquer Pot from Uttar Pradesh – Circa 1930

This Indian red lacquer pot originates from Uttar Pradesh in northern India and dates to circa 1930. It features a cylindrical wooden body topped with a gently domed lid, finished with a finely turned, pointed finial. Its rich, deep red lacquer has developed a wonderful patina, with subtle variations in colour and wear that reflect nearly a century of use. Distinctive to Uttar Pradesh, these traditional lacquer pots are generally more restrained in design than their elaborately decorated Rajasthani counterparts. The striking crimson finish recalls the deep red lacquer traditionally seen on Chinese furniture, while the elegant turned form demonstrates the skill of Indian woodworkers. Traditionally used for storing small personal possessions, jewellery or kumkum (the red powder used in Hindu religious and decorative traditions), these pots were both practical household objects and attractive decorative pieces. The interior of this example retains traces of reddish staining, possibly from the coloured powder it once contained. The traditional lac finish was applied using a hand-powered woodturning lathe. As the wooden vessel revolved, the craftsman pressed sticks of coloured lac against its surface. The friction generated sufficient heat to soften the lac, depositing a thin, lustrous coating onto the wood. Origin: Uttar Pradesh, Northern India Date: Circa 1930 Materials: Turned wood with traditional red lac finish Features: Cylindrical body, removable domed lid with turned finial, original red lacquer and naturally aged patina Condition: Good antique condition with surface wear, minor marks and variations in the lacquer consistent with age and use. Interior shows traces of reddish staining. Dimensions: W19.5 x D19.5 x H21 cm Weight: 1 kg