Vanity Box by David Edwards in Rosewood with Silver

Description

Rosewood Vanity Box by David Edwards fitted with sterling silver mounts by Thomas Douglas of London dated 1845.

The vanity box of rectangular form is extensively veneered in richly figured rosewood and edged throughout with brass, incorporating framed brass stringing to both the lid and front panel. Each side retains flush mounted brass carrying handles allowing the box to be transported securely, while the exterior is completed with a barrel form brass escutcheon.

Opening the vanity box reveals a fully fitted interior with a concealed mirror bordered with gold tooling in the lid. The interior houses a complete vanity set comprising eleven glass jars fitted with sterling silver lids hallmarked by Thomas Douglas of London and dated 1845. The arrangement reflects the high quality presentation expected from mid nineteenth century luxury travelling vanity boxes.

The fitted interior is arranged across multiple removable sections. The upper tray lifts out as a complete unit using side tabs, with two smaller trays which can be individually removed and a further jewellery tray positioned below. Beneath the fitted trays sits a large storage compartment incorporating two pull out drawers and an additional concealed compartment positioned beneath the central rear bottle.

The vanity box is fitted with a secure Bramah lock signed to the lock plate and displays recognised construction details associated with David Edwards, including brass stringing to the exterior and maker stamped scissors forming part of the original fitted set.

A well appointed mid nineteenth century rosewood vanity box combining practical travelling design with sterling silver mounted fittings dated to 1845.

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David Edwards 

David Edwards was a respected London cabinet maker specialising in dressing cases and writing slopes, establishing his business in 1813. The firm held Royal Warrants under George IV, William IV and Queen Victoria, supplying the Royal Household with high quality fitted boxes. After Edwards’ death in 1848, the business continued under family management and received a prize medal at the Great Exhibition of 1851 before being acquired by Asprey in 1858. Edwards vanity boxes are recognised for their strong construction, substantial brass mounts and frequent use of Bramah locks.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on David Edwards.

Rosewood

has many variations. Indian Rosewood, also known as Bombay Rosewood or Bombay Blackwood, is found in India and Indonesia. It is highly valued for its striking appearance with colours ranging from medium-brown to dark red-brown with even darker grain lines. Madagascan Rosewood, found in Madagascar is a pink-brown colour with a darker almost purple grain.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Rosewood.

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