ANTIQUE BOXES
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Antique Boxes in English Society
1760 -1900
by ANTIGONE
JEWELLERY BOXES and EMPTY BOXES
JEWELLERY BOXES and EMPTY BOXES
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Concave Shaped Box standing on Ball Feet with Brass Inlay Circa 1820
This is a splendid example of a Regency box combining the best characteristics of its type.
The shape is of concave sides with a structured flattened pyramid top. This is further emphasized as the box is supported on four original ball feet.
The edges of  the base, top and lid are finished in gadrooning.
The whole box is veneered in very well figured Brazilian rosewood with the characteristic light and dark striations.
The front and top are inlaid in brass.  The design is of neo classical inspiration featuring stylized flora. The escutcheon forms part of the design.
Size in cm:28.5 wide(11.5 inches) at base, 21 deep and 15 tall with feet.
Front view. The flow of the inlay is well orchestrated combining classical symmetry with flowing lines.
The top showing the sharpness of the inlay and its strong effect. There are a few surface cracks visible when the box is held and examined closely. This is probably the result of the tension between the brass and the wood and not surprising considering its age.
 The inside is covered in the original paper and fine silk. There is some visible wear but it is in reasonable condition considering its age.

Altogether this is a very special box.

For the historical context of this writing box read the relevant part of Antigone's Online Antique Box Book. If you click here you will go there.

  © 1999 Antigone Clarke and Joseph O'Kelly