Victorian Tabletop Pillar Letter Box in Original Red Paint

Description

This Victorian tabletop pillar letter box dates to circa 1875 and is constructed in oak, retaining its extremely rare original red painted surface. Modelled closely after a full size British pillar post box, it has a carved domed top, cylindrical body and stepped plinth base, all scaled for private domestic use.

The front is fitted with a nickel plated hinged posting flap marked LETTERS, with the nickel plated letters VR positioned below for Victoria Regina. Beneath sits the hinged access door incorporating the original “Post Leaves” collection timetable, closely replicating the layout and appearance of a genuine Victorian pillar box.

This model follows the pillar post box design originally developed by the English artist Richard Redgrave in 1856 and altered in 1859 to become the first national standard pillar box. Originally painted green, the colour was changed to red later in the 19th century, establishing the familiar appearance associated with British post boxes.

At 45 cm high, this reduced scale example would have been intended for private use, most likely within a substantial country house estate or hotel, where correspondence could be collected before being taken to the local post office. Tabletop and country house letter boxes retaining their original painted finish, collection timetable and internal fittings are particularly sought after by collectors of Victorian postal and country house antiques.

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Measurements

45cm High x 22.5cm Diameter (17.7 x 8.86 Inches)

Literature

Mark Goodger Autumn 2026 Catalogue Page 20/21

What is Oak?

Oak is a hardwood from the Quercus genus, widely used for centuries due to its strength, durability, and versatility. It is typically heavy with a pronounced grain, ranging in colour from pale golden to dark brown, and can display distinctive figuring such as ray fleck when quarter sawn.

European Oak has long been used in furniture, joinery, and architecture for its stability, while variations such as Brown Oak develop deeper colour and pattern naturally. American Oaks, including White Oak and Red Oak, are also widely used, with White Oak valued for moisture resistance and Red Oak for its more open grain.

Beyond furniture, oak has been essential in barrel making, particularly for ageing spirits, and has historically been used in tanning and food production. It also carries strong cultural associations with strength and longevity, making it one of the most recognised and respected timbers.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Oak.

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