JENNENS & BETTRIDGE Gilded Writing Case "Patented Inlaid Gems" Circa 1850

ANTIQUE JENNENS & BETTRIDGE WRITING CASE

Circa 1850

Beautiful papier mache writing case with all over gilded scrollwork. Top features their "patented inlaid gems". Inside is fitted out with red velvet and brass hinges and sports a crown stamp with VR underneath (Victoria Regina). Includes original inkwell with stopper and pounce bottle. Also includes a key that sort of works but mechanism is stubborn. Cavity for pens and extra handles and nibs still has original cover. Slanted box rests on 4 shaped pedestal feet.

Velvet is wonderfully intact and edged with gold embossed trim. Gilding on outside surfaces has losses and remaining gilding is fragile and somewhat unstable. Background black paint behind the "Patented Inlaid Gems" lid has largely flaked off and fallen away although remains inside lid - along with a bit of the white background paint.

Box measures 13" by 11" at the widest part of the base - and about 4" tall at the highest point.

INVENTORY 869
FROM THE ESTATE OF PENNSYLVANIA ANTIQUE COLLECTORS