Letter box - 20th century

Subject Estimate (Updated)
Object Name: Antique Wall-Mounted Condominium Mailbox in Walnut Wood
Estimated Period: Late 19th / Early 20th Century (circa 1890-1930)
Probable Origin: Europe (Italy or France, urban contexts)
Materials: Fine solid walnut wood, period glass (with faint mercury traces), brass (hinges and hooks)
Current Condition: Used, with evident signs of age and wear (scratches, wear on the top, loss of a glass/panel in the lower central part), but structurally solid.
Planned Restoration: The lot will undergo conservative and professional restoration at Ardylab specialized studio.
Expert Estimate:
• Minimum Estimate: € 600
• Maximum Estimate: € 850
(Note: The estimate has been raised due to the greater rarity and intrinsic value of walnut wood compared to pine).
Auction Listing for Catawiki (Updated)
Lot Title:
Rare Antique Walnut Condominium Mailbox – With Professional Restoration Included (Ardylab)
Lot Description:
We offer at auction an extraordinary and unusual piece: an antique wall-mounted condominium mailbox dating from the late 19th or early 20th century. This small cabinet, crafted in fine solid walnut with a dark, warm grain, is an authentic and rare example of functional period furniture for historic residential settings.
Key Features:
• Unique Design: The object features a solid, refined walnut construction typical of walnut craftsmanship. The front is divided into six separate compartments, originally intended for the different residential units of a condo.
• Glass Doors with Label: Five of the six doors are present, complete with period glass showing faint and fascinating traces of mercury. Each door has a decorative oval opening and a small shell-shaped wooden handle. One of the central doors still retains an original paper label (with the inscription "Gandenzi - Colle"), identifying the probable historical recipient.
• Fine Materials: The piece is entirely walnut, with original metal hinges and two sturdy hooks on the back for wall mounting.
• Excellent Collector’s Piece or Furnishings: Perfect for collectors of postal history, historic interior design, or as a sophisticated vintage furnishing element in an entryway or study.
The Restoration: An Exclusive Added Value
This lot presents a unique opportunity. The mail cabinet is sold with a professional and conservative restoration to be carried out at the prestigious Ardylab studio. The restoration, aimed at preserving the piece’s integrity and history, will include:
• Cleaning and Nourishing the Walnut: Removal of old wax and dirt, followed by a nourishing treatment to revive the walnut’s beautiful grain.
• Functional Restoration: Repair and consolidation of hinges and doors to ensure proper operation.
• Replacement of the Missing Element: Accurate reintegration of the missing door/panel in the lower central compartment, using walnut compatible with the period and style.
• Protective Finish: Application of a natural beeswax finish to protect the wood and give it a deep, enduring sheen.
• Preservation of Patina and Label: Special care will be taken not to erase the signs of time and to protect the original label and period glass.
Conditions:
The cabinet is structurally solid. The restoration will cover functional damages and the absence of the central door. The original glass will be retained. The final result will be a beautiful, functional piece ready for display.
Note: The photos show the object’s current state before restoration. The item will be restored after sale and before shipping. Shipping times may be slightly extended to allow completion of restoration work (estimated at 2-3 weeks).
Don’t miss the opportunity to acquire this rare piece of postal and walnut design history, with the guarantee of a high-quality restoration performed by industry professionals.
Shipping:
The item will be packed with the utmost care and shipped via insured express courier. Free collection at our premises is also available.