Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
The inlay is all created from luminous and iridescent Mother of Pearl and Abalone shell.

This intricate inlay is followed through on the front creating a highly decorative escutcheon which houses the taselled working key. Both the top and front panels are also inlaid with a double brass stringing inlay.

Once opened the fitted interior is revealed with a red leather writing surface, gold embossed - this has been professionally replaced to give another 150 years of use. The fitted compartments include two brass topped inkwells, a removable pen rest, two small lidded compartments and a plethora of small stationery compartments - made for the very small Victorian personal stationery.

The top section of the slope opens to reveal a large space for the storage of stationery, letters and papers, this is also true of the bottom section which opens to reveal another Mahogany lined compartment. The back of this flap is lucky enough to have a maker's label, made from engraved Ivory (Pearce, Maker, 77 Cornhill, London).
Excellent condition, measuring 15" x 10" x 5" while closed.
Item: 33660
Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
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