Antique Jewellery Box in Coromandel with Cantilever Mechanism

This antique jewellery box, veneered in Coromandel with radial edges, brass strung inlay and corner mounts, was manufactured in 1868. The central brass plate to the lid is engraved with the initialled monogram of its original owner.

The interior of the box has been lined with purple velvet and moiré silk. Upon opening, the interior displays two front sections and a full width rear section. The front flap of the box drops forward, allowing the two front sections, both with four partitioned compartments and a ring/ cuff link channel, to swing out at right angles to the box. A lower level of five further velvet-lined compartments are fitted underneath. A central brass plate on the lower level can be pressed to release a large spring-loaded, velvet-lined front drawer beneath.

With the drawer removed, a spring-loaded jewellery tray concealed within the floor section becomes accessible; the tray is removed by pushing it backwards slightly, thus unlatching it and allowing it to pop up.

A spring-loaded, brass framed mirror with matching engraved monogram is fitted within the lid section; this can be removed or reversed to display a ruched velvet panel stand.

The top of the lock plate reads 'Chubb & Son - Makers to her Majesty - 57 St Pauls Churchyard - London’. The lock is fully working and comes with its original Chubb key.

Comments:

Although unsigned, I believe that this box was manufactured and retailed by the Pittway Brothers (John Pittway and William Pittway of 4 Kirby Street, Hatton Garden, London). The exceptional quality, design and technique of structural manufacture all display their hallmarks. The Coromandel has been veneered onto thick panels of dense Cuban Mahogany, giving the box an impressive weight of 9kg! ... Read More