Shams-i Tabriz 3-Drawer Chest

Inspired by the illuminated geometric manuscripts of the Persian Silk Road, Shams-i Tabriz translates to "The Sun of Tabriz." This collectible chest captures the radiant energy of an twelve-pointed celestial star, hand-carved in high-relief relief from solid mango wood over a whitewashed field to elevate grand interiors with sacred geometry and functional grace.

FEATURES

• High-Relief Relief Carving: Deep hand-chiseled Girih geometric star mandala facade spanning three continuous pull-out drawers.
• Dual-Tone Textural Field: Rich natural warm amber mango wood relief raised over a hand-distressed chalk-white recessed backing.
• Intricate Border Framing: Hand-carved starburst perimeter border reminiscent of classical Persian miniature bookbindings.
• Forged Iron Hardware: Six drop-ring iron pulls finished in matte black patina for smooth tactile operation.
• Architectural Steel Base: Elevated minimalist black metal leg base providing structural stability and modern lightness.

Named after Shams-i Tabriz, the legendary 13th-century Persian mystic and spiritual companion of Rumi whose name signifies "The Sun of Tabriz," this chest celebrates celestial illumination and structural order. Its front facade features a central 12-pointed geometric star (Shamsa), serving as a sculptural centerpiece for host spaces.

The architectural geometry originates from the ancient Girih (Persian for "knot") tradition, developed along the Silk Road trading routes across Isfahan, Tabriz, and Samarkand before spreading to Mughal India. Historically seen in the carved wooden doors of Khiva, the stucco ceilings of the Alhambra in Spain, and the pierced stone screens (Jali) of Akbar’s tomb in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, this geometry represents the infinite structure of the cosmos. The central 12-pointed star symbolizes the celestial movement of time, while the repeating interlaced lines reflect cosmic harmony. These patterns decorated royal palaces and caravanserais along the Silk Road, providing a visual language of peace and mathematical balance.

Handcrafted using deep relief woodcarving (Usta technique), master woodcarvers spend over 40 hours shaping each chest. Artisans first select dense planks of seasoned solid mango wood, drawing the complex geometric grid by hand using compasses and straightedges. Using precision chisels and gouges, the woodworker carves away the background to leave the raised lattice pattern intact. The recessed surface is then hand-painted with a chalk-white finish before the raised wooden lattice is hand-sanded to reveal its natural grain. This labor-intensive subtractive carving creates a 3D depth that machine routers cannot replicate.

Built entirely from sustainably harvested solid mango wood, this chest showcases dense grain patterns, natural knots, and subtle color shifts. The timber is kiln-dried to resist warping, while the outer relief is sealed with a satin lacquer that enhances its warm amber tones. Subtle variations in chisel depth and hand-fitted drawer joints emphasize its handmade character.

Because every line is chiseled by hand without digital templates, no two chests feature identical carving depth or wood grain, making each piece an exclusive, collectible creation.

ts balance of traditional sacred geometry and a modern black metal base allows it to integrate into contemporary luxury master suites, formal foyers, or executive salons.

STYLE DETAILS

Architectural Influences: Indo-Persian Silk Road Architecture and Safavid Dynasty Geometry.

Pattern Style: Girih geometric 12-pointed star mandala with starburst border lattice.

Decorative Elements: Relief-carved raised lattice, two-tone whitewashed backing, and forged iron ring hardware.

CRAFTSMANSHIP DETAILS

Technique Used: Subtractive high-relief hand carving (Chip and Gouge Carving).

Skill Level Required: Master woodcarvers with over 15 years of apprentice-trained experience.

Distinguishing Handcrafted Features: Hand-chiseled lattice relief, hand-applied whitewash background, and custom mortised drawer fronts.

Finishing Process: Hand-sanded, dual-toned stained and painted, sealed with protective matte lacquer.

MANGO WOOD FINISH CHARACTERISTICS

Grain & Depth: Golden honey amber tones with natural organic wood grain running through the relief.

Depth & Texture: High-contrast relief texture featuring smooth raised timber over a chalky recessed field.

Longevity & Aging Beauty: Solid mango wood ages into a rich patina over decades while maintaining structural durability.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT / INVESTMENT VALUE

A statement-making piece of functional art that anchors grand interior schemes.

Intricate hand-carved geometry that brings historical craftsmanship into the home.

Solid mango wood construction ensuring multi-generational durability.

SUGGESTIONS FOR INCORPORATION

Placement: Position in a grand entryway foyer, formal living room, or as a bedside chest in a primary suite.

Styling: Top with a brass table lamp, marble tray, and framed art to highlight the two-tone wood grain.

Lifestyle: Ideal for organizing linens, personal mementos, or serving as an accent piece in reception rooms.

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS

Color: Natural Honey Amber, Chalk White, and Matte Black Base.

Materials: Solid Mango Wood, Recycled Iron Pulls, Powder-Coated Steel Legs.

Finish: Hand-Stained Natural Wood with Whitewashed Backing and Satin Lacquer Seal.

Origin: Rajasthan, India (Indo-Persian Craft Tradition).

Age/Period Influence: 16th-Century Safavid & Mughal Geometric Lineage.

PERFECT FOR

Primary bedrooms, grand foyers, and curated living room nooks.

Clothing storage, hallway accent console, and statement art display.

INTERIOR TYPES

Modern Luxury

Contemporary

Classic European

Eclectic

Modern Organic