Reference: Jb 106  

Description:

A bombe shaped box, the main body veneered in rosewood, the top in parquetry. This box is an excellent example of early nineteenth century Tunbridge ware work. During the first decades of the nineteenth century, Tunbridge ware developed a distinctive style, which utilised the beauty of the different woods, both local and imported, available to the makers working in the area of Tunbridge Wells in Kent. By careful juxtaposition of figure, cut, colour and even peculiarity, such as a fungal attack, the artist/craftsmen, celebrated the richness of the natural world by displaying it on impeccably structured boxes.

The box stands on turned feet. The interior is lined in original paper.

Condition: Good.

Size:10.75” x 8.5”, 5.6” tall. 27cm x 21.3cm, 14.4 tall on feet.

Circa 1815.       

 

Although this box is typical Regency in shape, it combines the general style of the period, with the particular work of the place and time. 

This to me is the best period of Tunbridge ware, when the respect for the natural material led to a perfect fusion of design and craft. (See our book Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies, and Society -- 1700--1880, ISBN: 0764316885  Antigone Clarke & Joseph O'Kelly, A Schiffer Book for collectors chapter 9, figures 155, 156).  

The interior is lined in original paper.  

By careful juxtaposition of figure, cut, colour and even peculiarity, such as a fungal attack, the artist/craftsmen, celebrated the richness of the natural world by displaying it on impeccably structured boxes. 

 There are original carrying handles in the form of lion masks on the two sides. 

There are original carrying handles in the form of lion masks on the two sides. 

 The interior is lined in original paper. The mitered  tray and facings. The maple contrasts with the darker rosewood.