A Royal Commission by Queen Victoria; Antique Prototype Mechanical Jewellery Box in Rosewood

This antique jewellery box, veneered in Rosewood with brass edging, inlay and engraved side mounts, is a unique mechanical prototype that was manufactured under a commission by Queen Victoria during the mid-1840’s. Her ‘VR’ monogram and crowns are engraved onto the internal brass rims of the box.

The interior of the box is lined with burgundy velvet and matching moiré silk. The mechanism within is made up of twin spring-loaded rack and pinion gears, a network of bars and rails, multiple spring-loaded catches and four pairs of large leaf springs; this allows the two side trays to automatically slide outwards, and the central platform to raise upon the depression of buttons.

The side trays feature twin ‘slow’ and ‘fast’ winder adjustments to regulate their opening speed. Below each side tray is a spring-loaded secret drawer that is deployed by pressing a concealed trigger in the floor above.

The central rising platform is manufactured from brass and has been strategically fretworked to display and interact with the impressive mechanism beneath.

The Bramah lock and the ‘slow’/ ‘fast’ winders come with their original keys. ... Read More