Description:
A box in the sarcophagus form.  The box is veneered in figured rosewood and is inlaid in brass. 

The fluid design of stylised flora is exceptionally fine and very dramatic.  The verve with which the tendrils loop and swirl, animate this piece, without diminishing the strength and dignity of the form. This is a spectacular box which encapsulates the best of the Regency period.

Working lock and key.

Origin: UK

Circa: 1830

 

The design betrays the influence of the Royal cabinet maker, George Bullock, who introduced elements of naturalism into the neoclassical tradition of the previous decades.

Materials: rosewood and brass.

Size: 30cm x 23cm x 16cm: 11.8" x 9.1" x 16".

Condition: good overall. replacement turned feet, replacement tray and relined.

 

Monumental shapes became popular during the early Regency period, as a result of the increased awareness in Europe , of Middle Eastern antique art and architecture. It stands on turned feet.

(See chapter 4 and Figures 66,67,68, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375, in our book Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies, and Society -- 1700--1880, ISBN: 0764316885  Antigone Clarke & Joseph O'Kelly, A Schiffer Book for collectors).

 

Detail: The verve with which the tendrils loop and swirl, animate this piece, and augment the  strength and dignity of the form.

Detail: The escutcheon is integrated into the front panel of inlay. 

Detail: The deeply  embossed brass drop ring handles have the sumptuous glint of their original mercurial gilding. 

The box has been relined with both hand made marbled paper and velvet. The divided tray is a later replacement and is ideally suited for jewelry.

Detail: The escutcheon is integrated into the front panel of inlay.  The box has a working two leaver lock and key.

The central panel is framed by a brass line and emphasized by the extra dimension of the cavetto molding.