Discover our stunning new range of Indian Vintage Furniture
We’re absolutely delighted to announce that we now have in stock a range of vintage Indian furniture. Featuring an ever-changing range of original antiques imported directly from India, our collection includes a selection of carefully curated pieces.
As you can imagine, Indian antique furniture is hugely varied in style and design. However, if there’s one thing the pieces in our antique range have in common, it’s that they are incredibly beautiful and are unlike anything else you’ll find. From richly decorated painted cabinets, to sideboards with carved brass panels, traditional dowry chests and carved console tables, our new collection offers outstanding pieces to enhance your home.
The Story Behind Indian Antiques
The history of Indian antique and vintage furniture is closely linked to this fascinating country's cultural, historical, and artistic heritage. Spanning centuries, the evolution of furniture design in India reflects the influences of various dynasties, colonial rule, and regional craftsmanship traditions, resulting in a diverse range of styles and forms.
Initially, Indian furniture was predominantly minimalist, serving functional purposes. Early designs, such as low stools, cots, and carved chests, were often made from teak and other indigenous hardwoods. These pieces were often adorned with simple carvings and inlays, with a focus on durability and utility rather than elaborate decoration. Nevertheless, the quality of craftsmanship was always paramount.
The medieval period saw the rise of the Mughal Empire, which introduced Persian aesthetics into Indian furniture design. This era marked a significant transformation, with the introduction of intricate inlays, ornate carvings, and the use of precious materials such as ivory, mother-of-pearl, and gold. The Mughal influence is particularly evident in the detailed floral motifs and geometrical patterns that adorned furniture pieces such as thrones, screens, and cabinets.
The arrival of European colonial powers in the 17th century brought another layer of influence to Indian furniture design. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British all contributed to a fusion of styles, blending Western design elements with traditional Indian craftsmanship. This period saw the emergence of hybrid furniture pieces that combined European forms, such as chairs, tables, and cupboards, with Indian decorative techniques. The British Raj, in particular, led to the proliferation of what is now termed "Anglo-Indian" furniture—a distinct style characterised by the adaptation of British forms to local tastes and materials, often featuring extensive use of carved wood and latticework.
Vintage Furniture with a Big Personality
Indian furniture-making traditions are clear to see in our collection of vintage pieces. Dowry chests originating from Gujarat in Northern India are beautifully carved with patterns depicting fauna and floral patterns, whilst painted cabinets, decorated in vibrant primary colours reflect a love of elaborate decorative techniques. Indian vintage furniture boasts a big personality, offering a wonderful way to inject a sense of energy and playfulness into your interiors.
Of course every piece in our collection is unique thanks to a rich patina which can only develop over time. Here at Kayu Home we believe this is what makes vintage furniture so special, and by choosing one of these delightful items for your home, you’ll not only be adding a unique sense of style, but an original piece of Indian history.
