Very fine & rare antique Georgian era 8" stationery casket, a uniquely shaped box with marcasite or steel pique 'jewels', "Envelopes" incised mother of pearl cartouche and fitted interior! We have a few other examples of this era's finest style, light burled wood, sometimes lemon wood, and the pique. We do have one other large casket or chest, a cashmere or trousseau chest, but that one is a bit more plain and not worked as extensively with the marcasite or steel 'jewel' pique like this. Look it over closely - imagine first that each tiny cut steel pin is hand made, one by one. Then imagine the artisan's cabinetry-making skills, then the designer's craft of ornamentation, and finally putting it all together. A fabulous desk top decorative accent, very unique and in fine condition!
Good to very good condition. There are a few of the steel 'jewels' missing here and there but no exterior damage to the fruitwood veneers or inlay. There is a small missing veneer section on the inside rim of the box (right side of lid). The lock is intact but we've not been able to find a key that will work for it. Finally, the center interior divider is a replacement, a wooden panel with paper lining in the same pattern but not original. See pictures for measurements.
