19th Century Dutch Ebony Box With Silver Mounts and Hinges

Details

Description

Dutch Colonial ebony box with silver mounts, large silver hinges and the original steel lock and key. This rare box … Read more Dutch Colonial ebony box with silver mounts, large silver hinges and the original steel lock and key. This rare box was likely made in the Dutch East India possession of Sri Lanka, or made in Holland with ebony imported from there. 18th or early 19th century. There are hallmarks on the silver handle, a makers mark GH in a rectangle, and a oval stamp that is indecipherable. Beautifully crafted with fine details of molding on the lid and base. Made for a wealthy sea captain or officer of the Dutch East India Company, or for export to the European market. A box with a lot of character and history. The ebony has a fine, soft patina, the silver mounts complimenting the dark tropical hardwood perfectly. It would have been a prized possession.
9.75 inches wide 4.75 deep 4 high
Condition: The top has two parallel cracks full length, as well as several smaller ones, the bottom also cracked. Both top and bottom with some warping. Other cracks and minor losses to the body. all expected with age and use. See less