Description
Retailed by Charles Henry, Manchester
From our Writing Box collection, we are delighted to offer this English Burr Walnut Writing Box by Betjemann. The Writing box of slim rectangular shape with a slightly sloped lid is veneered in exquisite Burr Walnut to the exterior with beautifully shaped brass mounts. The escutcheon sits at the centre of the writing box on a brass mount which also features three monogrammed letters C F E. When opened the box reveals a royal blue velvet writing slope with a gold tooled border framed by an embossed greek key style border. The box is faced in exotic Coromandel wood which is a rare addition to this style of Writing Box. Above the writing slope, there is a partitioned section lined in Satinwood with two glass inkwells and a pen tray with further storage.
The secret spring-loaded stationary drawer features a solid Satinwood base complete with small yet elegant dovetail joints, activated by pressing down on the button on the brass mounted plate reading ‘Betjemann Patent’. The inside of the writing slope lid bears the retailer plaque ‘Charles Henry Manchester.’ The box also features the original owner’s monogram with the letters “C F E” in multiple locations.
The Writing Box comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key.
Literature Mark Goodger 25th Anniversary Catalogue p.43
George Betjemann & 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.
Burr Walnut also known as figured Walnut is a highly prized wood which is formed by a growth deformation resulting from stress, disease or nurturing the tree in a specific way. Burr can be developed by blocking the sap flow of the tree by means of putting a French Walnut on top of the roots of an American Walnut. Due to the unusual properties, it is rare to come across a Walnut tree growing this way in the wild. Nurturing planted trees takes at least 80 years before it is mature enough to be cut for good purpose. Burr Walnut is highly desired for their unusual grain and pattern, used mostly in veneering larger pieces such as furniture would be joined by matching the veneer pieces or blending them together.
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.
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.
