Atropos Antiques has dated this piece to the 1900s.
These beautiful items were designed for the setting and protection of specimens in the field in any part of the world from britain to the furthest flung corners of the tropics.
As to 'unique' I know of one other of these belonging to the father of a very well known politician but my one retains the original leather carrying cradle.
The solid mahogany cabinet contains it's original compliment of 22 setting boards, (all backed with mahogany), and. Indeed, some of these still have specimens set which have never been removed. The outer travelling case is in black japanned steel and the cushioned lining is faced with green baize giving an air tight fit when the cabinet is returned to the case.
The set of 22 setting boards are little used and retain their original papering. They vary in width and are all 16 inches in length. (normally boards are lost or missing).
This kind of item is really of museum quality and rarity and signifies and represents a period of time in life that will never return. Baron walter rothschild was a millionaire banker from a long line and he was able to indulge his pleasures without any money worries. Thanks to him the collections of the major museums have all been enriched with countless type specimens and examples gleaned from around the world. He sponsored collectors who happily went to some of the most inhospitable parts of the planet in the search for knowledge and new species. His well known daughter miriam rothschild followed in the family line.
This is a treasured piece from my own collection.
To any enthusiastic entomologist or collector of entomological memorablia this cabinet will represent a pinacle of importance.
All questions welcome and delivery can be arranged.
Atropos Antiques has dated this piece to the 1900s.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Atropos Antiques Profile Page
Unique and Historic Collectors Cabinet. Baron Walter Rothschild. Circa 1900.
