Unusual Possible Apprentice Piece Georgian Cutlery Style Box + Containers. C1880

Over 20 years of handling antique boxes and this is the first time that I have come across the likes of this piece. There is no disputing the skills in the making. Constructed entirely of solid rosewood and featuring a range of joints including beautifully crafted dovetail joints to the rear. No nail or screw fixings to be seen. The construction is rock solid. No shrinkage splits. Lid closes perfectly square. Original turned knob. Constructed in the style of a late 1700’s – early 1800’s Georgian cutlery box. The interior features the original removable solid wood divider. The 4 matching containers are certainly replacements, all are in excellent condition. I believe that the interior has been very cleverly adapted. Whoever did the work obviously did so with the objective of not damaging the original features in any way whatsoever. Originally the 4 containers would have been larger in terms of height. To accommodate the present jars a false bottom has been placed inside and in addition 4 accurately cut solid wood ‘spacers have been made. In effect by removing 2 or 4 spacers and /or the false bottom the jars can either be placed at a split level….or at even height at two different levels. Or alternatively the box can accommodate a range of different sized jars up to a height of approximately 14.5cm x 5.5 cm diameter. The 4 supports for the false bottom have been particularly well done or are possibly original …with beautifully crafted cut outs to make removing/replacing very easy. The supports are not glued/screwed or pinned but held firmly in place by the accuracy of cutting angles at the four corners. The manner in which it has been done does suggest originality given the construction of the box. Please see the photographs that clarifies the adaptability of storage far better than my words!! The jars could be changed but the current jars lend themselves to a variety of uses. One very nicely made box, certainly unusual, of a style and dimensions that means that it could be displayed and used in a very wide range of places. Must recommend purely for style, skill, condition, adaptability and charm…..Try finding similar!!