What were coromandel boxes used for?

These luxury containers held private correspondence, writing implements, jewellery, sewing gear, and cosmetics for affluent Victorian and Regency owners. Many featured specialised interior compartments, lift-out trays, and velvet-lined ledges designed to keep delicate personal items secure at home or during travel.

How do I tell a Regency box from a Victorian one?

Regency examples often lean towards classical restraint with linear brass stringing, whereas Victorian pieces frequently display heavier proportions and elaborate mother-of-pearl flora. Examining the internal layout, paper linings, and lock hardware helps anchor the piece within the broader nineteenth-century timeline.

Are the keys usually original?

Many surviving boxes retain working keys, though replacements are common given the passage of over a century. A working lock adds utility to the piece but does not alter the underlying date of the cabinet work. Sellers note whether a functional key is present in the description, which matters for boxes fitted with operational lid and drawer mechanisms.

How should I care for coromandel wood?

Keep the timber away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity changes to prevent the veneer from lifting or splitting. Minimal dusting with a soft, dry cloth preserves the polished surface and the inlaid metal or shell. Avoid liquid cleaners and wax buildups that can dull the natural contrast between the dark grain and the bright decorative elements.

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An inlaid coromandel box brings dense, dark exotic timber and shimmering shell or metal into the Victorian interior as an opulent keeper of valuables.

19th century

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Coromandel Dressing / Jewellery Box

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