Description

Inlaid with Squirrels, Birds and Monkeys 

From our Jewellery Box collection, we are delighted to offer this English boulle Jewellery Box. The box of sarcophagus form with brass edging and canted lid extensively decorated with brass inlay decoration throughout with various animals. To each side, a pair of squirrels sit opposing each other below an opposing pair of birds with another pair flanking also. The animals are surrounded by scrolling brass inlay with floral motifs and a central butterfly in the 12 o’clock position. The box stood upon four brass bun feet elevating the box above the surface. The lid edged with a brass border, a further extension to the side scenes with further birds and butterflies. When opened the box reveals the ebony facing and interior with brass mounted lock plate and hinges. The inside of the lid with a rosewood border around a scene with a dancing figure and two monkeys. The interior is lined with red silk water paper and cushioned velvet with a removable tray and lower compartment. The underside of the box with remnants of two collection labels.

The boulle jewellery box comes complete with working lock and key.

Ebony is often almost completely black with very little visible grain often with a subtle red/purple hue. This wood is very expensive due to the slow-growing trees which can often be gnarly affecting the yield of straight workable wood. Most ebonies are very dense making work with hand tools very difficult and can quickly clunt cutting tools. This density however offers an excellent finish on turned items.

Boulle is a rich marquetry process or inlay perfected by renowned French cabinetmaker André-Charles Boulle (1642–1732). It involves veneering furniture with sheets of tortoiseshell which have been meticulously inlaid with brass and/or pewter in elaborate designs, often incorporating arabesques.

Rosewood has many variations. Indian Rosewood, also known as Bombay Rosewood or Bombay Blackwood, is found in India and Indonesia. It is highly valued for its striking appearance with colours ranging from a medium-brown to dark red-brown with even darker grain lines. Madagascan Rosewood, found in Madagascar is a pink-brown colour with a darker almost purple grain.

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.

Additional information