Campaign Military Writing Box Hewlins

Description

Brass Mounted Mahogany

From our Writing Box collection, we are pleased to offer this Campaign Military Writing Box by Hewlins. The Writing Box of rectangular form, constructed from solid mahogany, is mounted to the exterior brass strapping and twin flush-mounted handles. The lid is fitted with an initial plaque engraved with a name and the numbers 1856. When opened, the interior of the box reveals a campaign-type interior with partitions housing two rare Georgian sterling silver inkwells, both engraved with the following: Crown, initials E M and one with Water and the other Ink. It has a large central pen tray or storage area. The face of the box contains a steel key and two triangular key slots for screwing the box down during travel between campaigns. The top tray lifts out to reveal further storage below with a second removable tray and access to the secret compartment on the left-hand side. The secret compartment can be accessed by pressing the hidden catch built into the side wall next to the small box on the left-hand side. Pressing the wall will activate a spring-loaded plate, allowing access to the secret drawer. The underside of the lid has a second secret compartment which can only be accessed by pressing the middle lock keep. When pressed, the flap springs open so you can fold down, revealing its faded red cross ribbon letter compartment. The rare manufacturer’s label is not obvious as this can be found on the bottom of the large tray, it reads: “Hewlins from St Martins Lane. Cabinet Maker, Upholsterer & Undertaker, No.2 Strand near Northumberland House”. The Captain’s Military Writing box dates to the early 19th-century Georgian period during the reign of George III, circa 1800. The Writing Box has been extremely well preserved with beautiful patina.

Great collector’s piece which includes this rare pair of oversized sterling silver inkwells.

The Military Writing Box comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key

Measurements 14 X 12 X 7.5 Inches

Hewlins (Peter) was a cabinet maker, upholsterer Tunbridge manufacture and Undertaker active from the late 18th century through the regency period although no exact dates have been recorded of when the business as set up or when they finished trading. The business traded from Number 2 Strand and number 164 from the early 1800s to roughly 1814. He was named in Sheraton’s list of master cabinet makers 1803. The business was advertised to provide an elegant assortment of Copying Machines, Portable Desks, Ladies and gentlemen’s dressing cases, Knife Cases & funeral furnishings.

Mahogany is the name given to many types of tropical hardwood and can be found in Africa, India and South America, most of which are a red-brown colour with a fine, even grain. This makes it easily workable and gives it a durable finish which attributes to its popularity with many kinds of furniture.

Georgian, a period in British history dating from 1714-1837, the Georgian era after the Hanoverian kings George I, George II, George III and George IV.

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.

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