C 1860
A Trinity House* Burr Walnut Jewel Box with marquetry depictions of yachts & other sailing vessels on the lid and on all sides against a coastal background with buildings, lighthouse etc. The interior having the original decorated paper lining to the lid, and a fitted tray for jewellery etc. Working lock with original key.
*Trinity House was the name for the lighthouse service in Great Britain in the 19th century. While on station, the keepers of lighthouses and lightships made exceptional boxes with fancy wood inlays, including marquetry and parquetry, often featuring sloops, lighthouses and other nautical symbols of the period. Sizes typically fall in the 6- to 12-inch range. The keepers sold these boxes directly to the captains of sailing vessels using Trinity House services. Surviving examples are rare, including still banks, storage boxes, valuables boxes, writing boxes & jewel boxes.
A similar tradition was followed in the United States, where keepers of the Nantucket lightship made high-quality baskets for their families and/or for sale to island visitors.
See more at: http://www.internetantiquegazette.com/banks/3111_trinity_house_boxes/#sthash.ItZQTN8d.lMB6xcgE.dpuf
Width: 12.25 inches / 31 centimetres
Height: 5.25 inches / 13 centimetres
Depth: 8 inches / 20.25 centimetres
