Description

Brass Mounts

From our Writing Box collection, we are pleased to offer this Captains Military Writing Box. The Writing Box of rectangular form constructed from solid mahogany is mounted to the exterior with robust twin loop brass handles and brass strapping. When opened the interior of the box reveals a campaign style interior with partitions housing two inkwells and two parallel pen trays in front of a large storage area the face of the box contains a steel key and two triangular key slots for bolting the box down during travel between campaigns. The top tray lifts out to reveal further storage below and access to the secret compartment which can be opened via the hidden catch built into the side wall next to the small box on the left hand side. Pressing the wall will action 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. When pressed the plate springs open so you can fold down revealing its original green cross ribbon letter compartment and the rare manufacturer’s label that reads: “Hewlins from St Martins Lane. Cabinet Maker Upholsterer & Undertaker, No.2 Strand near Northumberland House“. The Captains Military Writing box dates to the late 18th century Georgian period during the reign of George III circa 1790. The Writing Box has been extremely well preserved with beautiful patination.

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

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.

Additional information