Antique Jewellery Box in Coromandel with Betjemann Patent 'Automatic' Mechanism by Howell, James & Co.

Dating from the early 1870’s, this exceptional antique jewellery box in Coromandel was designed and manufactured by George Betjemann & Sons, innovators of some of the finest and most creative mechanisms in cabinet-making.

This Betjemann Patent mechanism (patent No.28) operates so that as the lid of the box is raised, the two winged side trays and the front panel automatically open out simultaneously; this action is then reversed as the lid is lowered.

There is an inset arboreal styled monogram on the lid of the box that bears the initials ‘I.E.S’.

The interior of the box has been decorated with engraved brass work, and finished with burgundy velvet and matching Grosgrain silk. Both winged sections are bordered with fretworked brass galleries, and contain four jewellery compartments accompanying a ring/ cufflink channel. The large central tray is manufactured from solid Coromandel and can be removed to reveal a large lower compartment beneath with two small pull-out drawers made from solid Satinwood with a Coromandel frontage.

An ornately shaped and engraved brass framed mirror in the lid can be sprung forward and reversed to display a ruched velvet panel. Removing the mirror frame reveals a concealed burgundy leather-bound letter wallet behind.

An engraved brass strip on the front edge of the drop-front panel bears the retailers mark of ‘Howell, James & Co - Regent St. London'.

The mark of 'Betjemann's 28’ and 'Patent 28’ are stamped on the lower hinge mounts of the drop-front panel.

The Bramah lock is fully working and comes with its original Bramah key.

Ref: DL122