19th Century Embossed Leather Medieval Gothic Casket, Hand Painted Details

This is a beautiful and rare medieval gothic style jewellery box/casket in the form of a medieval style treasure chest with a domed top, metal strap-work detail and a small drop handle at each end. The item possibly dated from the nineteenth century, but maybe made to look earlier The body of this casket (apart from the underside) is completely covered in figured leather which has then been painted by hand to highlight the scrolls and cornucopia. In the centre of the lid is an oval part which is painted to resemble a miniature portrait of two medieval gentlemen. On the rear is a painting of a castle tower with banners. The casket itself is made from wood, with appropriately aged metal fittings for the lock plate, feet and drop handles. There is a lining to both the inside body and lid of a faded red damask type fabric. There is a lock plate, but no key and the item stand upon four dark metal paw feet, giving the whole a very medieval appearance. I cannot see any maker’s mark. The hinges are sound. The box is in good condition generally for its age although the leather is old and there are some small areas of wear, mainly around the edges. The body of the leather covering has no missing areas. The metalwork is dark and has na aged appearance.