Summary:
• Item: Mandalay Box
• Circa: 1860
• Provenance: Burma
• Period: Mid Victorian
• Wood: Teak
• Offered as a gift to a loved one
• Used as a travelling box
• Decorative brass inlay & strapping to exterior
• Floral shaped brass marquetry to the lid and front
• Stained wood decoration depicting elephants
• Oval shaped stained wood keyhole surround
• Original brass hinges
• Internal rectangular mirror
• 7 Internal compartments (5 hinged lids)
• Original chiming locking mechanism (with key)
• 2 internal secret compartments
• Original polish & patination
• Excellent original condition
• Very rare item
• Free delivery to mainland England, Wales & southern Scotland*
• Free 14 day UK returns period
Description:
This is a very rare antique Victorian colonial teak Mandalay campaign box, possibly used by the British Raj or military in Burma, circa 1880. It would also be useful as a travelling box, used for writing, storing jewellery etc. The exterior of the box lid is decorated with brass string inlay, arranged in a simple, straight perimeter with corners decorated with curves and dots. The inner perimeter consists of a twin line of brass string inlay incorporating straight lines with scroll ends. The centre of the lid is adorned with a depiction of a pair of stained wood elephants, placed either side of a tree. Below this is a string inlay inscription: “M.D.Y. BOX.” The front of the Mandalay box boasts profuse, intricate, dotted swirling patterns of brass string inlay. The box also incorporates brass corner straps to all outer sides. This Mandalay box boasts a very rare chiming locking mechanism lock (with key), along with the original key. The purpose of the chiming lock was that the owner, or nearby persons, would be able to hear if thieves were trying to un-lock the box and steal its contents! When the key is turned, an audible bell rings several times. The box opens to reveal and intricately detailed, carved lid interior in floral and circular patterns. The lid interior also features faux flower decoration and a central rectangular mirror. The interior boasts seven compartments, including five with hinged, carved lids. The centre-right compartment contains a hook with can be used for storing the key, if desired. The far-right compartment includes a hidden feature: the floor can be slid open to reveal an eighth, hidden compartment – ideal for the storage of jewellery or other small valuables. The central square of five compartments also lifts out to unveil a ninth compartment.
This box is a beautiful and truly classic example from the late Victorian period in colonial Burma and is highly decorative and unique. The level of detail and craftsmanship displayed is second to none. It is rare to see an example, which not only is in excellent condition but also in original condition.
The box features a mellow teak colour. As it boasts the original polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination this can only be achieved through age and years of care and cleaning it has received. This truly is a very beautiful item with quality construction and is original throughout. It is rare to see one in such good condition.
This item would look superb in a variety of rooms from the office to the bedroom. This item would certainly grace any home or office and is a great investment, as it’s extremely functional. So don’t miss out on your chance to own a lovely antique piece.
Condition Report:
The box is in good original condition, which is commensurate with its age. Nominal old use marks to the exterior and leading edges of the box, but nothing significant considering the age of the item. There is no missing brass marquetry, string inlay or brass strapping. There are no missing compartments to the box. The internal mirror is original and in good condition. The box features its original external working lock, with a fully functioning chiming component and working key. The original brass hinges are also in good working order. As it boasts the original polish, it has a fantastic colour and patination. This item is solid in joint and ready to use.
Dimensions:
Height = 24.8cm or 9¾”
Width = 55.5cm or 21⅞” or 1ft 9⅞”
Depth = 34.2cm or 13½” or 1ft 1½”
Terms & Conditions:
Before you purchase this item, please ensure you have read and are in agreement with our Terms & Conditions of Sale. If you have any questions regarding our Terms & Conditions of Sale, please contact us to discuss them, before purchasing this item.
Ref. Box 25