A truly beautiful example of 19th-century English craftsmanship, this Victorian-era box highlights the historic artistry of authentic Tunbridge Ware.
Crafted with premium figured timber—likely rich walnut or rosewood—the box features iconic, meticulously laid geometric parquetry and mosaic bandings.
Each decorative strip is composed of hundreds of tiny, naturally coloured specimen-wood tesserae, meticulously pieced together by master craftsmen from the historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Exquisite Tunbridge Inlay: The front and lid feature vibrant vertical and horizontal bands with traditional block and geometric patterns, creating a striking visual frame against the warm wood grain.
Stunning Natural Patina: The exterior timber displays an exceptional rich colour and a glossy, smooth finish built up through generations of care.
Fitted with its original central brass shield-shaped keyhole escutcheon, maintaining its authentic Victorian architectural charm.
The interior presents in highly authentic, unrestored condition, lined with its original, vibrant purple quilted fabric. The lining shows visible signs of age, including historic fraying, wear along the inner borders, and minor edge deterioration, beautifully preserving its centuries-old character and antique patina.
This piece is in good antique condition for its age. The wood boasts a nice, attractive lustre with minor, light superficial surface marks and nicks consistent with genuine age and historical use.
The inlaid mosaic bands are beautifully intact with exceptional colour retention.
Height: 10cm
Length: 25cm
Width: 16cm