Description

This stunning Asprey Silver Gilt Coromandel Vanity box has its original leather case and a truly amazing secret compartment that we almost missed, (very clever of the makers, indeed)! To ensure the vanity box is (and was) protected during travel, the case is lined with soft fleece.

This box used to belong to Mrs Mary Anne Devereux, Viscountess Hereford.

This beautiful Asprey Vanity box is veneered in stunning exotic Coromandel wood, with brass edging, triple stringing, flush handles and engraved escutcheons with an engraved monogram.

A luxurious interior is revealed upon lifting the lid, in which ten glass jars with silver-gilt lids surround a fully fitted tool pad.

Additionally, this box is reinforced by internal corner brackets and beautifully engraved hinges.

There is an engraved monogram on each of the gilded lids of the jars (made by London Silversmiths John Harris). The monogram reads “MH” – these Crowned initials are for Mary Anne Devereux, Viscountess Hereford.

A retailer’s plaque appears on the back of the open box and reads: “ASPREY Manufacturer 166 Bond Street”.”ASPREY Manufacturer 166 bond street”.

This box was decorated with an engraved lock-keep that was inscribed with the following text: “J.Bramah 124 Piccadilly”

A secret compartment in this box was discovered by the workshop after many hours of searching!

Once the box has been opened and the tray and drawer have been removed, the main lock should be set to the locked position. After this, a light pressure should be applied to the lower center of the wall, beneath the lock keep. When this is done, a hidden tray will be dropped down to the drawer’s void. In addition to 12 sovereign holders, this tray features a leather-strapped letter compartment. A cheque signed “Hereford”, with a grand total of £600, was discovered inside the secret tray. In today’s currency, this equates to £76,950.00!

With this wonderful Antique Vanity Box, you will find an elegant tasselled key that operates a fully functional Bramah lock. Unlocking the lock requires turning the key clockwise and pressing it into the lock.

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