Decorated overall with floral inlay, with hinged top compartment and lid, the silk lined interior with two loose covers flanking a tray of various silver sewing implements, including a tape measure, mother-of-pearl needle case and scissors, the frieze drawer below opening to reveal a folding rosewood writing slope with two silver mounted containers, hallmarks for Birmingham, 1831, 33.5cm wide; 25cm deep; 19cm high
Condition report:
Various chips and scuffs commensurate with use and age, notably along the edges and corners, including the front bottom edge of the frieze drawer. Some lifting to the metal stringing in areas. A few small losses to the mother-of-pearl inlay.
The tray of sewing implements is not complete, various missing.
The silk lined interior lid a little worn with a torn hole toward the middle of the front. Tarnishing and wear to remaining implements.
Ivory ball knop handle broken off the frieze drawer for the pull-out writing slope.
A few scuffs and scratches, velvet lining a little worn and dirty, wear to silver marks.
Several keys inside the top compartment, none for the box.
Provenance: Hylda and Lewis Gilbert, Sheldrake Place, London.
Lewis Gilbert (d.2018), the celebrated film director, producer and screenwriter, best known for his 007 James Bond movies and Alfie.
