Absolutely superb dated and initialed ‘Till’ so called because of it’s size and sloping lid rather than the flat top bible box. We can also assume it was not a reading slope as many were as it bares no evidence of ever having a moulding to support a book. The beautifully carved lid in a flamboyant Charles 11 manner and Dated 1683 with the letters GR (abbreviation of George, owner maker?). The front is carved with two interfacing Wyverns (Dragons) attributed to and synonymous with the west country and Midlands area. With it’s untouched split tail butterfly hinges and original lock and hasp. The inside reveals two small pigeon holes which don’t show any sign of drawers and were more likely for an ink well or sealing wax. Interestingly a mistake was made only on the right side with a vertical rebate being cut in line with the pigeon holes, then left, perhaps by an apprentice. Being only 14.5 inches wide this extremely rare size box is in immaculate condition, colour and patination. The photographs do not do the piece justice. A very rare C17th item of English furniture!!
Absolutely superb dated and initialed ‘Till’ so called because of it’s size and sloping lid rather than the flat top bible box. We can also assume it was not a reading slope as many were as it bares no evidence of ever having a moulding to support a book. The beautifully carved lid in a flamboyant Charles 11 manner and Dated 1683 with the letters GR (abbreviation of George, owner maker?). The front is carved with two interfacing Wyverns (Dragons) attributed to and synonymous with the west country and Midlands area. With it’s untouched split tail butterfly hinges and original lock and hasp. The inside reveals two small pigeon holes which don’t show any sign of drawers and were more likely for an ink well or sealing wax. Interestingly a mistake was made only on the right side with a vertical rebate being cut in line with the pigeon holes, then left, perhaps by an apprentice. Being only 14.5 inches wide this extremely rare size box is in immaculate condition, colour and patination. The photographs do not do the piece justice. A very rare C17th item of English furniture!!
