Description

Presented here is a charming Antique Tunbridge Ware Sewing Box in Sycamore wood.

A trend for polished, light-coloured boxes with painted decoration was prevalent between 1790 and 1830; this particular box is characterised by its perspective cube design and Tunbridge floral borders on the lid.

Stunning tessellated paper lines the interior of this box; it is pale pink in colour with elegant gold lines and details. The interior holds a removable tray that is divided into several compartments. A variety of sewing accoutrements can be found on the inside, consisting of seven Mother-of-Pearl thread reels, a needle book, a tool pad, a tape measure and a pin cushion. On the underside of this tray, there is a large storage space.

As well as retaining much of its original contents, this Antique Tunbridge Ware Sycamore Sewing Box comes complete with a fully functioning lock and a small tasselled key that make it possible to keep the box locked. Please note: The key must be turned clockwise to unlock.

The History of Tunbridge Ware

Tunbridge Ware items originate from the beautiful spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent. We always have a very good selection which showcases the techniques of tessellated mosaic, stick ware, perspective cube mosaic, vandyke and painted pen work.       Tunbridge Wells and Tunbridge in Kent, England became popular in the 17th Century for their therapeutic waters.      By the 18th century, Tunbridge Wells was a hugely popular Spa resort. Shops and stalls were set up to sell local work of distinction to visitors as souvenirs. Many of the original boxes were decorated with all sorts of different kinds of designs.      Many of the Tunbridge boxes had a central image with views of castles, churches, pavilions, animals, country scenes and sometimes people, such as the Young Prince of Wales. These were surrounded by a variety of bandings and panels of floral and geometric designs.       In the late 1790s, Perspective Cubes and Vandykes were popular patterns; their three-dimensional design gave the design a sense of depth. Many exotic timbers would be used on some boxes, especially those depicting the Cube perspective and Vandyke pattern. The popularity of Stick Ware and tessellated mosaic patterns grew during this time period.

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