Magogany Writing Box with Dressing Tray Circa 1800

ANTIQUE BOXES
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Antique Boxes in English Society
1760 -1900
by ANTIGONE
Writing Boxes

Writing Boxes

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A Georgian Mahogany Triple Opening Writing Box and Dressing Box circa 1800.

A mahogany brass bound box which is an example of a combined dressing case and writing desk. The lift out dressing tray is fitted for holding a man's grooming accessories. This is a very unusual arrangement.

12" wide. Circa 1800.

This box is very similar to another box on our site. 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.

The top part shown open. Also visible are the two inkwells and pen tray.

The box open completely and showing the lower paper compartment. The underside of the writing flaps are in oak.

The top flap folds down to reveal the dressing tray. There are slots for razors, a shaving soap jar and compartments for scissors and other grooming tools.

When the tray is lifted, the back panel under the pen tray slides up to reveal two secret drawers.

The shaving jar with silver plated top sitting on the flap.

Detail of inkwell in its compartment. Note the very elegant inset strengthener in the facings.

The left pot is a pounce pot. The surface is original baize.

For the historical context of this writing box read the relevant part of Antigone's Online Antique Box Book. If you click here you will go there.

We have written a highly illustrated book on Antique Boxes and Tea caddies which is being published by Schiffer Books USA. This box has been specially photographed for inclusion.