Ethnic Design Collection Reto Zehnder

This large dowry chest from 19th century from Nuristan (Afghanistan) is made of cedarwood. It is a unique piece of craftsmanship and Nuristan. The front panel can be opened, permitting a much more comfortable use than the access by the cover panel. Kafiristan, its name before Islamization, is a historical region that covered present-day Nuristan Province located on the southern slopes of the Hindu Kush Mountains in the northeastern part of Afghanistan. Nuristan was full of steep and wooded valleys. It was famous for its precise wood carvings, especially of cedar-wood pillars, carved doors, furniture such as dowry chests