Rare & Interesting Georgian Mahogany Dressing – Jewellery Box. C1820

Please see my stock page for the largest selection of jewellery boxes available on this website. If you like antique boxes that are scarce, practical, well made, unusual and interesting then this box is certainly worthy of attention. Believed to have been made during the first quarter of the 1800’s this item has done extremely well to survive in such condition for circa 200 years. Constructed with solid mahogany it was obviously made for a very well to do lady to more than likely be taken with her on her travels. The vast majority of boxes made for those that travelled during the period were made for gentleman of high standing rather than for ladies. No shrinkage splits. Unspoilt patina, including to the brassware. Original inlaid escutcheon for the main lock. Original inset side handles with the original screw fixings. The lid closes square and true. The lid interior features the original ruched velvet panel with the original swing clasp that when released allows the panel to fold forward to access a storage area behind. The supports for the panel have I believe been replaced at some point in time but that should be forgiven and expected as does the slight wear to the material by the swing clasp. Please note the condition of the leading edges of the mahogany lining to the base…It is fair to state that most boxes with like features are damaged rather than in perfect condition as per this item. The main storage area is full of surprises and comprise of removable boxes with sliding tops, removable trays, numerous storage sections….All original, all in remarkable condition with no missing or replaced sections. Some of the undersides of the lids or lining to some sections feature the remains the original foil lining. This could very easily be cleaned but on items of such age, scarcity and quality it is best that I respect the integrity of the item to provide the purchaser with the choice. The 6 silver plated topped containers and the various accessories within the top red leather lined tray are not included and are included in the photographs to give a rough idea of how the box may have looked originally. The containers are of a standard size and more suitable containers more appropriate in terms of age and style are frequently available on various websites or at antique auctions and fairs at very reasonable prices. In some respects as much as the top storage of the box provides the most interest and features of this box it is the front drawer that is the most remarkable feature in terms of condition. The drawer has a replacement escutcheon for the original lock and a replacement working key. (Key for the other original lock is for decorative purposes only). The tray is, in common with the rest of the box constructed of solid mahogany. Hand cut dovetailed joints for maximum stability. Upon removal of the drawer the part of the main box carcass above the drawer can be examined. The entire surface is covered with what is without doubt the original velvet all fully intact. It is an extremely rare feature….albeit next to never seen but reflects the care taken by the box maker and the pride of work that existed during the period. It is also extremely rare to come across any antique box of any period that still has the original protective silk top cover in a drawer, and even more scarce for it to be free of any tears!!! The tray features the original velvet and satin throughout with all material and dividers 100% complete. Sections to accommodate long necklaces, rings and bracelets etc. In total the box has over 30 storage sections, 4 trays and 3 removable boxes. The Georgians were masters in terms of quality construction, practicality and maximum usage of space and this item certainly ticks all of those boxes. Scan the web, try finding similar/better. It has been a joy to explore this box and it does of course come Very Highly Recommended. Unpacked weight 4.9 Kg