Mid-Century British Arts & Crafts Mahogany Indoor Post Box Cabinet, “Sentry Box” Form, Lock and Key

Details

Description

Mid-Century British Arts & Crafts Mahogany Indoor Post Box Cabinet, “Sentry Box” Form, Lock and Key

Subject & Medium
A … Read more Mid-Century British Arts & Crafts Mahogany Indoor Post Box Cabinet, “Sentry Box” Form, Lock and Key

Subject & Medium
A rare British indoor post box cabinet in the form of a traditional palace sentry (guard) box, handcrafted from solid mahogany with a rich deep-brown tone and an attractive naturally developed patina. Influenced by Arts & Crafts ideals—honest materials, practical purpose, restrained decoration—this piece works equally well as functional storage and as a sculptural decorative accent.
Circa mid-20th century.

Composition & Technique
The cabinet is shaped with a pitched roof top, reeded pedestal base, and carved panel detailing that adds definition without excessive ornamentation. The front presents a brass-mounted fixture and a secure, lockable door panel, with a top posting slot for letters or notes. At the base, a pull-out drawer with a brass handle offers useful storage for keys, stamps, or small desk items.
The solid mahogany construction gives satisfying weight and warmth, and the finish displays the grain and tonal depth associated with well-aged timber. Later-added hinges and small historic repairs are present and visually sympathetic, maintaining the piece’s usability and period character.
Posting slot opening: 11.9 cm wide x 0.4 cm high.
Working brass lock and key included.

Historical Note
Indoor letter boxes of this type were commonly used in the entrance hall, study, or office of substantial homes as an elegant household post collection point. Today, they are increasingly sought after as distinctive, architectural decorative objects—ideal for entryways, libraries, and curated interiors.

Dimensions
Height: 56 cm
Width (base): 27 cm
Depth (base): 21 cm
Internal size of the letter posting slot area: 11.9 cm wide x 0.4 cm high

Provenance
By repute from Nether Lypiatt Manor (noted as a former Royal residence), retaining a Southern Shire auction label to the interior, and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Condition Report
Fine used condition with appealing aged patina. General surface wear and scuffs consistent with age and use. Later-added hinges and small historic repairs present, visually sympathetic. Lock and key included and working.


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