Description
Retailed by Charles Westley
From our Writing Box collection, we are delighted to offer this Coromandel & Sterling Silver Writing Box by Betjemann. This rare example Writing box is of slim rectangular shape with a slightly sloped lid veneered in exotic Coromandel wood to the exterior with beautifully shaped applied Sterling Silver mounts. The circular escutcheon protrudes through the centre of the writing box flanked by scroll work Sterling Silver centrepiece. When opened the box reveals a royal deep blue velvet writing slope with a gold tooled border finished with fleur-de-lis icons framed by an embossed greek key style border. The box is faced in exotic Coromandel wood and contains two original gilded screw top inkwells, a central pentray and rear partitioned document compartments lined in Satinwood. There is a secret spring-loaded stationery drawer which features a solid Satinwood base complete with small yet elegant dovetail joints, activated by pressing down on the central button on the brass mounted plate reading ‘Betjemann Patent 176′. The inside of the writing slope lid bears the retailer plaque ‘Charles Westley, Promenade Cheltenham.’ The Writing Box is a rare example to be mounted with Sterling Silver mounts, the mounts are hallmarked individually, Sterling, London, George Betjemann & Sons and dated 1877
The Betjemann & Sons Writing Box comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key.
Measurements (inches) 5.7 High x 14.6 Wide x 11 Deep (closed)
Charles Westley were stationers based at 13 Promenade Villas in Cheltenham in the second half of the 19th century.
George Betejemann & Sons was a celebrated British firm of cabinet makers and retailers founded in the mid-19th century. Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the finest writing boxes and other luxury desk accessories of their time. Specializing in the use of high-quality materials such as rare woods, brass, and exotic leathers, George Betjemann & Sons catered to an elite clientele of royalty, nobility, and wealthy collectors, who appreciated the firm’s commitment to innovation, elegance, and functionality. The Betjemann family’s passion for craftsmanship was passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that the company’s legacy of exceptional design and quality endured for over a century. Today, antique pieces by George Betjemann & Sons are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, revered for their timeless beauty and historical significance.
Coromandel is a valuable wood found in India, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. It has a contrasting hazel-brown colour with black grain. It is a dense, heavy wood that is so popular it has been logged to extinction over the last few hundred years. This makes Calamander pieces even more special.
Satinwood is found in India and Sri Lanka. It has a rich golden colour and an almost reflective sheen. Satinwood is traditionally used for high quality furniture.
Sterling Silver refers to the alloy of metal containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper or zinc. Sterling Silver objects are stamped with the 925 mark to confirm their authenticity.
With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.
