Description:
WB466: Writing box veneered in richly figured walnut dated 1892 
This box is veneered with striking pieces of wood, the centre of the top is burr encircled by wavy figure. The box is strengthened and enhanced with rounded brass and accented with fine brass lines. It has a strong Bramah lock.
The box is veneered inside with ebonised wood. It has a second lock on the flap. The writing surface is covered in the original gold embossed leather. There are two reproduction inkwells. There are two secret drawers. Working locks and keys.


Origin: UK 

Circa: 1892 

Size: 40 cm by 24 cm by 17.5 cm:15.7 inches by 9.5 inches by 6.9 inches.

Condition: Crack on inside bottom. see below.
Working locks and keys.

Front and top view showing the beauty of the figured wood which contrasts well with the brass, which provides protection and definition to the form.

see: http://hygra.com/uk/wb2/wb123/ 

Detail: 

The writing tablet retains is original embossed leather surface.

 

The two keys: Bramah for the main lock and the other for the flap. Privacy is always an issue.

Front and top view showing the beauty of the figured wood which contrasts well with the brass, which provides protection and definition to the form.

 The figure of the wood is dramatic even on the back, where often, simpler woods are used.

 In the centre of the top the brass plate reads:  W E S

November 2nd 1892.

Detail: The brass is fixed with square section brass pins.

The slope retains the original gold embossed leather. There is another lock on the top flap. The box also has good Butterfly hinges and brass rounded slots which help the flaps to line up when closed. 

Detail: 

The writing tablet retains is original embossed leather surface.

 An interesting feature is that the screw slots have been aligned. 

There is a crack in the veneer  inside bottom. This does not effect the structural integrity of the box. This is visible in this picture.

 

 The box has two replacement inkwells with screw tops.

Detail: Under the flaps there are compartments for paper.

The inside surfaces are French polished.

 

There are two secret drawers concealed behind a sprung panel. the panel is released by pulling o

Detail of the Bramah lock and lockplate. See: http://www.hygra.com/locks/Bramah/