Burmese Teak Actor's Chest

This unassuming wooden trunk is an early 20th century actor's chest from Mandalay, Burma. Used by a traveling opera performer or stage actor, the trunk opens to reveal several interior compartments for storing costumes, makeup, money, and personal belongings.

The teakwood trunk has a simple, rectangular form elevated by four wooden wheels and decorated with inlaid brass scrollwork. The lid interior is elaborately decorated with hand-carved columns and archways, surrounded by a bright red velvet lining. The columns are inset with clusters of fabric flowers and flank a small mirror used for applying makeup. Each of the interior compartments is decorated with intricate linework and the central tray can be removed to reveal a large lower compartment.