Georgian Tunbridge Ware Sewing Box

Description

A Georgian Tunbridge Ware sewing box dating to circa 1840. The rectangular rosewood box is extensively decorated with geometric Tunbridge Ware mosaic inlay across the exterior and stands upon four double ribbed bun feet.

The working lock opens to reveal the original yellow paper lined interior, fitted with various compartments for sewing tools and accessories, including Tunbridge Ware reels and a matching thimble.

View the full Tunbridge Ware Collection.

Measurements

8cm High x 19.5cm Wide x 14.5cm Deep (3.15 x 7.7 x 5.7 Inches)

What is Tunbridge Ware?

Tunbridge ware is a highly celebrated form of British inlaid woodwork characteristic of the traditional workshops in Tonbridge and the fashionable spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent. Flourishing during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, this intricate technique involves assembling a meticulous mosaic of naturally coloured exotic woods to form decorative geometric borders, floral patterns, or pictorial landscapes. Items of this calibre were bought as premier luxury souvenirs by high society visitors to the Kentish spa towns.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Tunbridge Ware.

What is Rosewood?

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 a 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.

Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques?

With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide.

Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality.

Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades.

When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.

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