The Grand Trunk Show at Taj Mahal Hotel displayed fine examples of French, Chinese and Italian furniture designs, some created thousands of years ago. Architect Alexander Dolea took Divya Kaushik on a Walkthrough
What seemed like a mini version of a wooden palace or king-size palanquin with intricately carved borders, fine inlay work on pillars and silk cushions and sofas in royal blue, was actually a Chinese bridal bed. It is said that the Chinese beds were usually of three kinds — bridal, opium and reception. The one that was attracting attention at the first Grand Trunk Show at the Taj Mahal Hotel fell into first two categories. The single window spaces would offer privacy to brides and opium smokers would enclose themselves within the casings which would be draped with heavy fabric to keep the smoke from drifting out. One of the rare collector’s piece, which reminds of the Chinese art and aristocracy, was part of the antique furniture exhibit at the hotel. Taj Khazana, the luxury lifestyle stores located at various Taj hotels in the country, in association with The Great Eastern Home curated a show of fine furniture, stylish home accents and vibrant art. Taj Khazana displayed a mix of elegant period and new-age furniture and artifacts at The Grand Trunk Show. The collection ranged from Tudor, classic French, Chinese and Italian furniture.
Architect Alexander Dolea, who has been associated with the The Grand Trunk Show, at Taj Falaknuma Palace, was here to give the guests a walk through of the exhibit. “While some have been restored, some are recently created, some are antique work of furniture existing since hundreds of years. There are tables, beds, cabinets, sofas and mirrors that reflect the classic designs and craft of the Italian, French and Chinese furniture. Some pieces, like a reclining chair, created hundreds of years ago, are designed in such a spectacular fashion that it will make you wonder how the artisans thought of such a design. It is too far ahead of its times with adjustable back and head rest,” informed Dolea.
Pharaonic set at the exhibition comprised two chairs and a two-seater. Finely carved in walnut wood, depicted a pharaoh sitting on his throne, holding aloft two sceptres. “It is a classic example of Napolean I Retour d’ Egypt fashion, France, from first quarter of the 19th century,” said Dolea. Hand-painted and gilded French console with marble top was another example of brilliant design. The interiors, too, had fine inlay work. One of the Chinese cabinets on display had interesting work depicting some scenes from daily lives of people. There was also an Ottoman cabinet from the late 19th century with fine inlay work in bone and mother of pearl.
The furniture and the art works on display were also available for sale.
photos Pankaj Kumar