Description

Hidden Secret Compartment

From our Writing Box collection, we are pleased to offer this Regency Rosewood Writing Box by David Edwards. The Writing Box veneered in Rosewood with extensive brass inlay with a double parallel engraving to the front and lid of the box. The exterior is finished with flush mounted twin loop carry handles, one to each side and a vacant initial plaque to the lid. When opened the antique writing box reveals a dark blue almost black leather writing slope bordered with gold tooling scrollwork. The Writing slope is faced with decorative brass tulip flower inlay strengthening bars to each corner with a blossoming flower in the 90 degree angle. Each half of the slope hinges up to access storage below via small loop tabs at the far end of each slope to the centre the top storage area has a very unusual and rare leather bound accessories pouch that contains writing implements. The rear of the box houses two travelling boxes, one labelled ink and the other light, the light contains a compartment with matches and a striker. Besides the small travel boxes are a pen tray and two lidded storage compartments with further brass inlay. The Writing Box features a secret compartment hidden in the top half of the slope which is accessed by removing the pen tray insert and pushing in the inner side of the right hand wall at the base. Once the hidden catch is activated the front fascia springs forward and two Satinwood hidden drawers are revealed. The Writing slope dates to the early 19th century during the short lived Regency era (1811-1820) and the reign of Prince George circa 1820. We undoubtedly attribute the Writing Box to London Firm Edwards from the construction materials and composition compiled with our previously sold Edwards boxes, a confirmed sign that the box was manufactured by David Edwards.

The Rosewood Writing Box by David Edwards is complete with a working lock and tasselled key.

Measurements (Inches) 5.5 High x 15 Wide x 10 Deep

David Edwards was a renowned Cabinet maker from London holding a Royal Warrant specialising in Dressing Cases & Writing Slopes. Edwards established his cabinetmaking business in 1813 based at 84 St James’s Street, London. He remained at this address for only a year before moving to 21 King Street, Bloomsbury, London. As the Edwards company grew in both size and reputation Davids nephew Thomas Edwards joined the business in 1832 and took full control after David died in 1848. The firm earned the Royal Warrant from George IV, William IV and Queen Victoria which also included the Royal Family. The company’s mark changing accordingly under her Majesties reign.

The firm won a prize medal for excellence of workmanship at the Great Exhibition of 1851 when it was taken over by Thomas’s son, Thomas Jeyes Edwards. Thomas Jeyes Edwards continued to run the business until 1858 when it was bought out by Aspreys of London of which Thomas Jeyes took employment until his retirement in 1872. The company throughout its duration made exceptional quality boxes with substantial brass work often incorporating Bramah locks with the boxes. Edwards boxes are sought after today due to their renowned craftsmanship and the notoriety of the Royal Warrant.

Rosewood has many variations. Indian Rosewood, also known as Bombay Rosewood or Bombay Blackwood, is found in India and Indonesia. It is highly valued for its striking appearance with colours ranging from a medium-brown to dark red-brown with even darker grain lines. Madagascan Rosewood, found in Madagascar is a pink-brown colour with a darker almost purple grain.

Satinwood is found in India and Sri Lanka. It has a rich golden colour and an almost reflective sheen. Satinwood is traditionally used for high quality 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