Monday, 30 August 2010

Omani Chests/ Traditional Boxes in Oman

For the Omani home: omani chests and traditional boxes are ornate works of wood and brass, including studs and elaborate inlaid work. Because Omani homes traditionally had no wardrobes or built-in-closets, the Omani chest is of particular importance for storing goods and clothes. Before chests were used for transporting goods. Nowadays, omani chests are used for storage of valuables particularly the bridal chest which is traditionally passed down from generation to generation and traces a history back to the 18th century.

Nowadays, for weddings the bridal gifts (maher) are often gifted to the bride in one of these boxes. They come in a variety of colours, black and tan being the most populat but also green and red. You can get a beautiful one made along the UAE border in Al Bahrimi, or purchase one from Nizwa souq. Obviously, boys, your new in-laws think bigger is better ;p if the box is being used for the maher and the maher is your bride's weight in gold;D. Sorry. Yet again I will rant against high mahers being the cause of great ill in Omani society.

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