Tunbridgeware Dressing Case

A beautiful Tunbridgeware dressing case, designed for use by a gentleman. The key wood is rosewood, with mahogany trims. The dimensions are 22.5 cms wide, 28.2 cms deep, and 15 cms high. Outside features include a magnificent interpretation of the tumbling, or perspective cube design. There is a key and working lock, and escutcheon. There is a rosewood knob to the lower drawer which slides open once the bone pin is removed and the lid is open. The four bun feet are mounted upon raised pedestals. The hinged lid reveals a three division interior. As the pictures show, revealing the interior below the covers, there is a soap compartment with original metal lining. Two containers (removable) are to left and right in that compartment. The middle compartment has two divisions and the third is a single compartment with a removable four item rack. The lid of the case exhibits a mirror with intricate balled frame, so often seen in the inside edge of Tunbridgeware work boxes. Perspective cube design was one of the earliest used in English furniture, and so it continued into Tunbridgeware, probably by Burrows in 1797 (see Austen “Tunbridgeware & Related….page 56). It continued throughout Tunbridgeware production until 1945. Dating the piece we look at the larger (up to 3 cms) sides of the blocks, and this indicates earlier work. Also, the stronger marked woods were not so popular in Victorian times, so again indicating an earlier (Regency) piece. Additionally, the use of rosewood was at its’ height in Regency times. Without a trade label it is very difficult to attribute the maker of this wonderful example, but that it is early, and Regency, there is little doubt.