Box - Pinewood - Antique advertising crate

Antique Colman's Starch Advertising Crate – Original Printed Label – Pinewood, Late 19th/Early 20th Century

A genuine antique wooden shipping crate for Colman's Starch, retaining its original printed paper advertising label to the interior of the lid. Colman's, founded in 1814, is one of Britain's most historic manufacturers, long associated with both mustard and starch production and holder of a royal warrant.

The label bears the wording "Warranted free from Adulteration" and "Mustard Manufacturers to the Queen," alongside the Bull's Head trademark, phrasing that points to a Victorian-era date, likely late 19th to early 20th century.

Constructed from solid pine with visible hand-worked joinery, period nails, and honest wear consistent with age and genuine commercial use. The crate bears a partially legible period pencil inscription on the exterior, possibly a name.

A rare survival of Victorian commercial packaging and advertising design. Equally striking as a display or storage piece for those drawn to raw, authentic antique character.

Genuine age-related wear throughout: surface scuffing, staining, and patina to the timber; label shows some edge wear, foxing, and a small area of loss/lifting to one corner (see photos). Structurally sound. No restoration or repairs undertaken, sold as found.

Dimensions: 48 x 28 x 15 cm
Weight: 1.7 kg

Material: Pinewood, original printed paper label