Late 17th Century Leather and Brass Travelling Box

A very fine and interesting late 17th century English work box or travelling case

English Circa 1680

Of conventional form with slightly domed lid, this piece has acquired a magnificent patina and colour-the leather showing all the wear one would expect and gaining much more character as a result. The central plate escutcheon is large and impressive and is inspired by the strapwork designs utilised so effectively on silver of this period.

The unusual latches to the left and right of the front suggest that this piece was perhaps designed for travelling, providing additional security as the piece was bumped up and down in a carriage or on board a ship. They are also highly decorative. The other mounts are designed to protect the corners and reinforce areas where the leather might be subject to additional wear and tear.

The leather has aged in such a way that it is highly reminiscent of polished burr walnut-the most sought-after timber during this period and so likely not entirely coincidental. The original hinges are strong and without repair and the interior is partially lined but otherwise plain as would be expected. The lock on the piece is very well made and of stronger than usual construction, signifying that this box was clearly intended to be used to carry valuable items when necessary.

A charming and unusual example of its kind and a very rare survival from this early period.

Width: 13 1/2 inches - 34 cm

Height: 7 inches - 18 cm

Depth: 9 inches - 23 cm

Loveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London.

Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.

As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association.

Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed.

All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for.

We deliver within the UK for usually between £60-£80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote.

GOODS

All items listed are in excellent condition having been restored using traditional methods by experienced cabinet makers and polishers keeping the original colour and patina wherever possible.

Please bear in mind you may find the usual markings with antique furniture that are commensurate with age which all add to beauty and uniqueness of the item.

VIEWINGS

We have a reputation for being long established antique dealers in London having had showrooms concurrently running in Islington, Chelsea and Ascot. We have relocated our new showroom, due to London overheads, easily reached between A1 or A10 to just outside of Hertford, Hertfordshire.

We will happily arrange for clients to be collected travelling via train. Local stations being Hertford North, Stevenage and Ware, all being a 10 minute drive from us.

Please contact us for location and appointments.

Telephone: 01438 869 819

Payments accepted are Bank Transfer, Cheque, Major Credit Cards or Cash.

Opening Times

Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.30pm Please email or call beforehand to make an appointment.

If outside of these times again please call to make an appointment

We have more than 40 years experience in supplying Antique furniture to the trade, public and interior designers from all parts of the world so please buy with confidence as we have passed the test of time.