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ANTIQUE BOXES
at the Sign of the Hygra
2 Middleton Road
London E8 4BL
Tel: 00 44 (0)20 7254 7074
email: boxes@hygra.com |
Antique Boxes in English Society
1760 -1900
by ANTIGONE
Writing Boxes |
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Georgian Mahogany Triple Opening Writing Box circa 1800. |
A mahogany triple opening brass bound
box of quality workmanship in original condition.
12" wide. Circa 1800.
This box is very similar to another
box on our site which has a dressing tray. The two must have come
from the same workshop. Characteristic features of this box such as the
particular shape of the protective corners, flat side handles, shape of
central plaque, and quality of wood and workmanship, strongly point to
the work of the cabinet maker Middleton who was recorded as working from
1801-10 at 162 Strand, London. |
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The corners are particular. They hold and strengthen the wood
panels, combining elegance with function.
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Side view showing the handle and the early type of steel screws
securing the brass.
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View of the box fully extended. |
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View showing inkwell, pounce pot, and pen tray.
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The top flap opens to a document envelope. The back
retains tapes for holding notes. |
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The box with the writing surface folded up. The ink stains bear
witness to early pencraft accidents!
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The surface is original baize. Note the unusual pounce pot.
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Interior paper compartment. The panel under the
inkwell/pen tray slides up to reveal small secret drawers. |
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Other side paper compartment.
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