150-Year-Old Architectural Stepped-Roof Brass Valuables Casket (Dhana Peti)

Traditional 150-year-old authentic hand-engraved brass valuables keeping box (Dhana Peti / Ratna Manjusha / Valuables Chest), crafted circa late 19th century in Odisha. Historically utilized by aristocratic Odia families, wealthy merchants, and temple trustees to safely store family gold, heirloom jewels, coins, land deeds, and sacred bridal ornaments. Features an impressive architectural pagoda-style hipped roof lid with raised stepped tiers, finely chased with chevron, herringbone, and cross-hatched friezes. Crowned with a heavy solid-cast overhead arched swing bail handle hinged on heavy cylindrical lug mounts for secure transit. The front is fitted with a substantial forged loop-hasp and drop-ring latch catch with staple for padlock security. Weighs approximately 1,600 grams (1.6 kg), measuring 9 inches (22.9 cm) in length and 5 inches (12.7 cm) in height. Preserved in remarkable antique condition with untouched historic multi-tone patina, displaying fine verdigris and silver-lead highlights acquired over a century and a half of domestic custody.