Vintage Indian Hindu Brass Kumkum Powder Box Spice Box Six Compartments Garuda Screw Lock 8cm High

Vintage ornate indian brass locking spice or kumkum box with six hinged compartments, circa 1930's. This very interesting box was made to hold either spices or kumkum (a powder made out of ground turmeric or saffron which, when mixed with water is used for ceremonial hindu beauty rituals). The six teardrop shaped compartments each have their own hinged lid, the lids are opened by unscrewing the central'garuda' figure on top of the box.

Garuda is a mythical hindu bird-like creature - a mix of both eagle and human. Each of the lids is embellished with the figure of a peacock, the legs of the box are shaped as elephant heads. The box measures 8 cm high and 8 cm in diameter (3.15 x 3.15 inches), and weighs 195 grams. It is in very good vintage condition with some age related wear and patina. All of the hinged compartment lids open and close as they should, as does the central screw lock. Thank you for visiting my shop, please don't hesitate to send me a message if you have any questions. This item is made of brass.

---