Miniature Antique Jewellery Box in Coromandel, by Leuchars & Son

This miniature antique jewellery box, veneered in coromandel with brass edging and a central engraved monogram, dates from 1870. It was manufactured and retailed by William Leuchars & Son.

The interior of the box is lined and ruched with burgundy velvet. The left and right-hand side compartments have secret floors that raise to uncover concealed velvet-lined sections below. All the interior brass work retains its original gilding. The maker's plate on the rear rim of the box is engraved with ‘Leuchars & Son - 38, 39 Piccadilly London'.

A spring-loaded leather-bound mirror in the lid can be removed to reveal a ruched velvet pad on the reverse. With the mirror panel removed, a concealed leather-bound letter wallet becomes accessible. A further mark of, ‘W. Leuchars, Manufacturer, 38 Piccadilly, London.’ is gold tooled onto the front of the letter wallet.

The ‘Leuchars Patent’ stamp on the lock refers to its design whereby the front aperture can be twisted clockwise using the key, thus disengaging the locking mechanism and allowing the box to be opened. A full anti-clockwise turn of the key will lock the front aperture's twist mechanism in place; in this state the box is completely deadlocked. The lock retains its original gilded key.

Ref: DL239