Desk set - Wood

Victorian Papier-Mâché Lacquered Writing Box – Hand-Painted Flowers, Mother-of-Pearl Inlay, Gold Scrollwork, 19th Century
Description :
Exceptional Victorian papier-mâché writing box, circa 1850-1870, in jet-black lacquer with hand-painted floral decoration, mother-of-pearl inlay, and elaborate gilt scrollwork. A fine example of the celebrated English papier-mâché craft.
Dimensions: 30 cm (L) × 24 cm (W) × 9.5 cm (H)
Exterior:
Jet-black lacquered papier-mâché with high-gloss finish
Lid decorated with a large hand-painted bouquet of roses and mixed flowers with mother-of-pearl highlights
Scalloped edges with mother-of-pearl and gilt dot border on all sides
Front panel with ornate gold scrollwork arabesques surrounding the lock
Side panels with delicate gilt floral sprays
Shaped and profiled lid edge — typical of quality Victorian papier-mâché work
Original lock mechanism on the front
Interior:
Fully lacquered black interior with gold scrollwork decoration on all panels
Upper compartment with fitted pen/letter dividers
Removable inner tray with gold floral script decoration
Lower compartment lined in red silk/velvet with gold lace border trim — for letters or documents
All four interior walls decorated with gilt arabesque motifs
Condition:
Some wear to mother-of-pearl border consistent with age
Lacquer in good overall condition
Interior red lining intact and vibrant
Lock present
A highly decorative and collectible piece of Victorian craftsmanship. This type of papier-mâché work was produced primarily in Birmingham and Wolverhampton between 1840 and 1880.