Victorian Hungarian ash stationery box by Howell James & Co, with domed lid, brass strapping and porcelain plaques.
ABOUT
Hungarian ash stationery box by Howell James & Co, of domed form and veneered throughout in figured ash, finished with bold brass strapping and porcelain mounted decoration.
The exterior is defined by the use of Hungarian ash, chosen for its distinctive grain and tonal variation across the surface. The domed lid is secured with wide brass straps which extend across the body, adding both structure and contrast against the lighter timber. Set within the ends of the front strapping are circular porcelain plaques decorated with blue enamel cherub scenes, repeated again to the centre of the lid within a shaped brass mount.
Opening the box reveals a fitted interior lined in blue silk paper, arranged with compartments for letters, documents and writing implements. The interior layout remains practical and well proportioned, retaining its original purpose as a desk or travel stationery box.
To the rear, the retailer’s plaque for Howell James & Co of Regent Street, London is present, identifying the firm as one of the leading London retailers of luxury goods during the nineteenth century.
The stationery box dates to the Victorian period and remains a strong example of late nineteenth century retail work combining decorative materials with functional design.
The box is complete with a working lock and tasselled key.
DETAILS
Stock Number:
501344MCE
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5
Depth: 12
Height: 16
Place of origin:
England, UK
Date of manufacture:
Circa 1880
Seller:
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