These beautiful boxes are called pen boxes, traditionally used for holding pens and pencils. They are crafted from small panels of camel bone over wood, all fitted together then painted with either detailed black scroll work or very detailed Mogul scenes of courtly life.
Note that pen boxes always have a curved base that exactly matches the curve of the top of the box. This means that the proportions of the pen boxes are perfectly symmetrical and they rock from side to side when put down on a flat surface.
Small flaws and slubs are common in these hand made items.
Hand made in Rajasthan, India.
Measurements: Length 28 cm, width 6.5 cm, height 6 cm
Camel bone has been used in India from ancient times for making utility articles as well as decorative ones. It is the ultimate in recycling and eco-responsible craftsmanship as it allows every part of the noble camel to be used after death. The art of camel bone decoration reached its peak in Mogul times, but is now considered a dying art form. Award-winning master craftsman and art conservationist Zakir Hussain has embarked on a crusade to protect the art of camel bone carving and decoration from dying out by instigating a mentorship program in conjunction with the Indian government.
Hussain says, “I have seen a number of crafts at the brink of death in Rajasthan, and I make a point to speak about it during every summit or conference I attend. We have created a number of camel bone artefacts... What we need is a place to exhibit and sell these handicraft forms which is easily accessible to the public, locals and tourists alike.”
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