Indonesian Carved Teak Jodang Wedding Chest – Java or Madura, Late 19th–Early 20th Century
€ 650,00
An impressive traditional Indonesian jodang wedding chest from Java or Madura, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. Constructed from solid hardwood, probably teak, the chest features distinctive opposing sloping lids, substantial pegged construction and an elaborate carved crest decorated with stylised birds and scrolling vegetal motifs. The heavily aged surface retains an evocative patina and extensive traces of traditional use.
1 in stock
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A substantial Indonesian jodang, a traditional form of wedding and dowry chest associated with Java and Madura, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century.
The chest is constructed from heavy solid hardwood, probably teak, around four substantial corner posts raised on carved feet. Its unusual upper section incorporates opposing sloping lids, each fitted with a simple brass ring pull and opening to reveal the large storage compartment within.
The most striking feature is the elaborate carved superstructure rising above the chest. A symmetrical central crest is composed of paired stylised birds arranged around a central vegetal or floral motif, while the two extremities terminate in large upward-sweeping carved forms enriched with scrolling foliage. The combination of birds, vegetation and strongly stylised curvilinear ornament reflects the decorative vocabulary of traditional Indonesian woodcarving.
Particularly interesting is the construction itself. The broad wooden panels are joined to the substantial corner uprights using traditional joinery, with numerous projecting wooden pegs and tenons remaining clearly visible. Rather than concealing its construction, the piece makes these structural elements part of its visual character.
The term jodang is associated with traditional Javanese and Madurese chests used in connection with marriage ceremonies, particularly for the storage and transportation of clothing, textiles and other possessions forming part of the bride’s wedding goods.
The chest has clearly experienced a long working life. Its surface displays considerable variation in colour, extensive rubbing and wear, old scratches, cracks, abrasions and minor losses. The upper surfaces and lids are particularly worn, producing a warm, dry patina that gives the piece considerable visual character.
An evocative example of Indonesian vernacular furniture, combining functional construction, traditional woodworking and highly expressive carved decoration.
Condition
Good antique condition considering its age and original utilitarian function. Extensive age-related surface wear, scratches, abrasions, old cracks, staining and colour variation are visible throughout. There are minor losses and areas of wear to the carved crest, feet and other exposed elements, together with natural movement and irregularities to the solid wooden boards. The lids and upper surfaces show particularly pronounced wear. The aged surface and patina have been retained and form an important part of the object’s character. Please refer closely to the detailed photographs, which form an important part of the condition description.
Technical Details
Origin: Indonesia, Java or Madura
Period: Late 19th–early 20th century
Date: Circa 1880–1920
Type: Jodang / traditional wedding or dowry chest
Material: Solid tropical hardwood, probably teak; brass fittings
Decoration: Carved and pierced stylised bird and vegetal motifs
Construction: Traditional solid-board construction with pegged and tenoned joinery
Technique: Hand constructed and hand carved
Dimensions: 76cm x40cm x 75cm
Condition: Antique condition with extensive age-related wear, cracks, abrasions, minor losses and surface irregularities
| Condition | Excellent |
|---|---|
| Material | Wood |
| Period | 1850-1900 |
| Style | Folk |
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