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Description:
Ref: 729JB http://hygra.com/box/729JB 
Rosewood veneered box with a hand coloured print of a classical figure and edged with a paper print of oak leaves. The box is in the neoclassical tradition of the late 18th 
–early 19th century, which drew its inspiration from ancient art. Ladies dressed in diaphanous “classical” robes and posing as figures of classical mythology, were 
thought to be the height of fashion at the time, with women such as Emma Hamilton (Lord Nelson’s mistress) sporting such affectations for after-dinner entertainment. 
Circa 1810.

The box which is constructed in the early neoclassical tradition with straight 
lines, straight decoration to the sides and centrally placed oval accent.

Origin: UK ;  Circa: 1810; Materials: .

Size:  28.4 cm wide by 23.2 cm by 12 cm:  11.2 inches wide by   9.1 inches by  4.7 inches.

Condition: good overall; working lock and key; some wear on the green framing print; see images.

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The inside has a later acquired lift-out tray covered in cotton velvet.

Corner showing decoration of oak and acorn. This motif is redolent of symbolism of 
strength wisdom and endurance from ancient to present times.

Central print. Serpents, dragons and monsters crowd all mythologies. This classical 
lady could be Hera with her monster son Typhon, an offspring produced in pique after 
her husband Zeus gave birth (unaided) to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. It could also 
be the river god Achelous who turned himself into a speckled serpent in order to woo 
(unsuccessfully) Deianeira, beloved of Hercules. The lady could also be the Nereid 
Thetis, who in an attempt to avoid getting married to Peleus, a hero, but for all of 
that a mortal, changed herself into a serpent. Eventually they did marry and produced 
Achilles. 

The box is lined with the original pink paper. A velvet pad has been made for the bottom making the box ideal for jewelry. 

 The rosewood has a dramatic figure.

The losses on the paper show. At some time, it was re-touched where worn in the 
corner.

The bottom is covered in felt.