Georgian Mahogany Knife Boxes, 1790s, Set of 2

Details

Description

A Very Good Quality, 18th Century, George III Period, Mahogany Pair Of Knife, Or Cutlery, Boxes Of Typical Shape with … Read more A Very Good Quality, 18th Century, George III Period, Mahogany Pair Of Knife, Or Cutlery, Boxes Of Typical Shape with Serpentine Fronts And Superbly Figured, Inlaid And Crossbanded Sloped Lids, Revealing Later Fabric Lined Interior Compartments.

Cutlery boxes, or as they are now more commonly referred to, Knife boxes, were of course originally made with the purpose of housing the homes most precious and valuable cutlery and enable it to be locked away when not in use. This was very important as generally the cutlery used by wealthy homes in the 18th and early 19th centuries would be extremely expensive to purchase.

They nearly always came in pairs and were nearly always found standing proudly atop the serving table, or sideboard in the dining room. Often there would be two pairs, one for serving utensils and one for eating utensils, which is why you often find a whole variety of different sized slots contained within their interior fittings.

This particular pair of cutlery boxes have had their interiors totally removed at some point in their past however. And they have then been lined with a suede type fabric, which could easily be changed for something different should one wish, which we think actually helps to give the boxes far more of a purpose and function. It means there is a signifcant amount of storage space available within them which could be utilised for any manner of items which one requires relatively easy access to.

Its also worth noting how well figured the mahogany timber is and what a nice colour they have retained. The inlaid and strung decoration is particularly well executed and they are really just extremely attractive. They also come with working locks and keys and have been given a natual wax polish before being offered.

Circa 1790.

Height 14in.
Width 8.75in.
Depth 13.75in. See less