Edwardian Coromandel Decanter Box Retailed by Mappin and Webb

Description

This Coromandel Decanter Box Retailed by Mappin & Webb, dated 1905, is of square form with brass edging and raised upon a plinth base veneered in richly figured coromandel. The lid is surmounted by the initials WM in sterling silver, while the interior of the box retains its engraved brass retailer’s plaque reading Mappin & Webb, Facing the Mansion House, London.

Opening the box reveals a fully fitted interior housing a complete decanter service. The arrangement comprises four Hobnail cut glass decanters with faceted spherical stoppers, with four matching glasses fitted within the inner lid. Beneath the decanters is a removable sterling silver serving tray, hallmarked Sterling Silver, Sheffield by Atkin Brothers, and dated 1905.

The quality of construction, choice of materials and highly fitted interior confidently attribute the manufacture of the box to George Betjemann & Sons, one of the leading London makers of fitted boxes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A fine example combining the retailing prestige of Mappin & Webb with the exceptional box-making associated with Betjemann, retaining its fitted decanter service and silver serving tray.

View the full Decanter Collection.

Measurements 

32cm High x 27cm Wide x 27cm Deep (12.6 x 10.6 x 10.6 Inches)

Who are Mappin & Webb?

Mappin and Webb were founded in 1775 by Jonathan Mappin who opened a silver workshop in Sheffield over the years Mappin & Webb gained worldwide recognition for their quality silverware and jewellery which is still standing today. They hold Royal Warrants and their master craftsmen also serve as Crown Jewellers, the custodian of the British Crown Jewels responsible for preparing them for the State Opening of Parliament and other state occasions.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on Mappin & Webb.

Who were George Betjemann & Sons?

George Betjemann started as an apprentice cabinet maker from a young age working for his Father in Law. In 1848, his two sons George William Betjemann and John Betjemann joined him under apprenticeships until 1846 when George William Betjemann started his own business with his two sons. In 1859 George moved to a new premises on Pentonville road, London. This was when the business became known as ‘Betjemann & Sons’. John Betjemann was grandfather of the later famous poet laureate Sir John Betjemann.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on George Betjemann & Sons.

What is Coromandel?

Coromandel is a valuable wood found in India, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. It has a contrasting hazel-brown colour with black grain. It is a dense, heavy wood that is so popular it has been logged to extinction over the last few hundred years. This makes Calamander pieces even more special.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Coromandel.

Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques?

With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide.

Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality.

Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades.

When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.

Additional information