Writing box

1870-1910

Measurements

5-1/2 in x 15 in x 10-1/4 in

Materials

Burled walnut (veneer), mother-of-pearl, white metal alloy, unidentified secondary woods, velvet, and glass

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Founation, gift of Martin and Joan Mason

Accession Number

2014.37

Condition Notes

Most of the metal string inlays have come out of their channels.  The rectangular key escutcheon is missing.  The purple velvet liner inside the box is faded and stained and has deteriorated.

Provenance

The box was found in the attic of the Crouch House on Main Street, Odessa.

Comments

The rectangular writing box has a hinged lid with rounded front and back edges.  The box exterior is covered in a burled veneer, probably walnut. An elaborate, scalloped-edge, ovoid inlay of pierced metal and mother-of-pearl depicting a floral basket decorates the center of the lid.  Three metal inlays separated by cross-banding run near each side edge of the lid and box.

The box opens to a hinged writing surface with compartments along the front for ink, pens, and other materials. A square colorless glass ink well with a white metal lid remains.  The inside of the box is painted in a vibrant red and blank grained pattern.