Description

Dome Topped Stationary Box

From our Box collection, we are delighted to offer this Antique English Boulle Stationery Box by Leuchars & Sons. The box of rectangular form with a domed lid extensively decorated to the outside with inlaid brass and red tortoiseshell boulle work. The exterior is finished with a delicate edging of brass and an escutcheon inlaid into the box boulle. When opened the interior reveals a royal blue lining with several partitions for letters and smaller documents to be stored. The base of the box is signed by the makers Leuchars & Sons 36 & 39 Piccadilly, London & 2 Rue De La Paix Paris. The Stationery Box dates to the late 19th century during the Victorian period circa 1880.

Boulle work is a type of rich marquetry or inlay originally perfected by renowned French cabinetmaker André-Charles Boulle. It involves veneering objects or furniture with tortoiseshell and brass in elaborate designs often incorporating arabesques. It gives the objects an extremely attractive and unique appearance with the red tortoiseshell elegantly complimenting the gold-coloured brass inlay.

Tortoiseshell describes a type of decorative material made from the shells of certain species of sea turtles. The shells of these turtles are composed of a hard, glossy substance called keratin, which can be cut and shaped into a variety of decorative items. Tortoiseshell has been used for centuries to make a range of decorative objects, including combs, brush handles, and other small items. It is also sometimes used to make tea caddies, as it is strong, durable, and can be polished to a high shine. The term “tortoiseshell” is used to describe these decorative items, even though they are made from the shells of sea turtles because the term has been used historically to refer to this material.

Leuchars of 47 Piccadilly, London was established in 1794 by James Leuchars. In 1837 the firm received a royal warrant for the supply of dressing cases to the royal family. Leuchars were also regular suppliers to the highly regarded Asprey of London. They were prominent cabinet makers throughout the 18th and 19th centuries creating some of the finest pieces of furniture and decorative objects of the time.

Every purchase made from Mark Goodger Antiques is accompanied by a comprehensive suite of documents to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind. This includes our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen item, and an independent invoice for insurance purposes. Additionally, your purchase is protected by our no-hassle, money-back policy, and your item will be fully insured during the shipping process to safeguard against damage or loss.

If you are purchasing Tortoiseshell or Ivory pieces and are outside the UK you must have a CITES certificate in order to import the item into your country. We can obtain these on your behalf at a cost of £50 and these can take up to 30 working days to arrive at our office. Due to the strict exporting rules of these pieces, they may also come with further shipping costs. Please ensure you contact us prior to purchase for a quote.