Writing box, made in beautiful rosewood, with mother of pearl inlay and brass binding. Dates mid to late 1800s. Shows Indian influence in the design. Top folds open to reveal three shaped-edge partitions for stationery - one with fretwork pattern.  The underneath of the brass lock plate is beautifully chased with a scroll and foliage pattern. The slope itself folds down, and is lined with green baize, and again has chased brass hinges and inlaid brass stringing. The baize is a replacement, and a little crude - could easily be replaced with a better fit. Top panel of slope lifts to reveal a storage compartment.  Box measures 21 cm high at the highest, 39.5 cm wide and 33 cm long front to back when folded;  53 cm front to back when slope is unfolded.
There are faults - front and one side of box has brass capping strip absent. There is an area of black lacquer missing from side edge of stationery section. One side of an inkwell stand is absent.  A little of the ornate brass inlay to the top is lifting - nothing serious though. This brass inlay is not currently polished. Small blemished to top and lid surface. In spite of its faults, this is a beautiful, unusual box, very high class, and possibly from the British Raj period in India.  Heavy item!

ITEM REF. No:  C17597

Large Heavy Items:    NZ North Island $71.00.    NZ South Island  $88.00     Australia:  $185.   Rest of World:  $470.00