Description

Rare Example of Belgian Spa

From our Sewing Box collection, we are delighted to offer this rare Spa Sewing Work Box. The Sewing Box of rectangular form made from solid Birch with a vibrantly painted exterior with a green border and yellow panels with light scrolling motifs. The lid features a classical scene with the three graces clutching an urn with a cherub in a woodland landscape. To the front of the box, a turned bone handle allows access to the lower drawer with two escutcheons above. The first, a blank escutcheon and the second used to securely lock the lid. When the lid is opened it reveals the original fitted interior with matching lids and mirror plate having the original pink ribbon-work lining. The bottom drawer opens by pulling forward and has a special mechanical action which lifts the two individual bone thread winders located in the front compartment. The mechanism is cleverly hidden within the base of the box and is not visible to the eye. The winders lift as the handle is turned and allows the user to have a full work box easily transported. Behind the spinners are several compartments one housing a large number of original thread casings all named to the lids and further storage below containing the original ribbon reel. The Work Box dates to the late 18th century during the Georgian period through the reign of George III circa 1780.

The Spa Sewing Box comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key.

Spa was born from a coming together of nature in the Principality of Liege which is nestled on the edge of the Hautes Fagnes in the heart of the Ardennes forest. It contains a wealth of iron ore and water sources that date back pre Roman era. Over many years travellers would come from far and wide to visit the area for holidays, history and a host of tourist activities. Artisans started to produce works to sell to these travellers and Spa work was born, often incorporating scenes from the local area and useful components such as sewing kits.

Sycamore is a member of the Maple family, found in Europe. It is light yellow in colour and is often a very clean wood, with a straight, fine grain. The wood is often pippy. However, these pips are usually a very similar colour to the rest of the wood making them hardly visible.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.

Additional information