Summary:
• Circa: 1860
• Period: Mid Victorian
• Wood: Teak
• Item: Mandalay / Deed / Travelling Box
• Provenance: Burma
• Used by a British Army Officer
• Offered as a gift to a loved one
• Profuse brass inlay strap work
• Original Removable internal hinged trays
• Original internal mirror
• Original internal carved trays
• Original steel carrying handles
• Original chiming locking mechanism
• Original working key
• Original iron handles
• Original polish & patination
• No splits to the box (front, back, sides)
• Very rare item
• Free 14 day UK Returns Policy
This is a very rare Burmese Victorian travelling officers’ wiring / deed campaign box, also known as a Mandalay box, circa 1860, originating from colonial India. An officer or Government official attached to the British Raj, in India, would have most likely used it on a campaign. The box is profusely inset with brass strap work and brass string floral inlay to the to and front. It also boasts two brass-locking clasps to the front of the box. The sides of the box feature the original steel carrying handles. This Mandalay box boasts a very rare chiming locking mechanism lock, along with the original key. The purpose of the chiming lock was that the owner, or nearby persons, would be able to hear if someone was 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 several carved teak compartments, for storage of precious items together with a removable central well, which reveals further storage space and secret compartments underneath. To the underside of the lid there features the original mirror. Flanking the mirror, are dried flowers, possibly given by a loved one, are still enclosed within these sealed clear compartments. An intricate carved ruby red painted wooden frame flanks the mirror.
The box boasts a rich dark red brown 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 item would look great in a variety of rooms; especially the office, dining room or bedroom and is an ideal place to store make-up, documents or any other possessions.
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 certainly grace any home. So don’t miss out your chance to own such a lovely antique item.
Condition Report:
The item is in excellent original condition, and is commensurate with its age. Nominal old use marks to the leading edges. The wear and tear observed in this item is in line for an item, which is over 150 years old. The hinges are in good working order and the lid closes flush to the box. The original key turns the chiming locking mechanism (which still works) to lock/open the box. As the box contains the original mirror, some foxing is present. We can replace the mirror if requested. There is ware to the inside floral decoration. The box is complete with the original tray inserts and original encased flowers. This item is solid in joint.
Dimensions:
Height = 42.3cm or 16⅝” or 1ft 5⅚”
Width = 68.5cm or 27” or 2ft 3”
Depth = 37.7cm or 14⅞” or 1ft 2⅞”
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. Mandalay Box 10