Exceptional Scrimshaw And Gold Box, 19th Century, United States War Of Independence

Exceptional is an extremely rare box engraved in the scrimshaw style, the fittings in 14k gold.

The box is rectangular. The lid is engraved in the scrimshaw style of a naval battle scene from the American War of Independence. It represents a boat with an American flag confronting a burning, defeated boat carrying the flag of the United Kingdom.

This victorious scene allows us to attribute to this box an American origin of the 19th century in commemoration of the War of Independence.

The scene is finely detailed with great detail and conveys the warlike atmosphere of these naval battles.

The keyhole, lock plate, lock latch, hinges and even the screws are 14k gold.
The use of gold for all of these trims is remarkable. It accentuates its preciousness and demonstrates to what extent this box was carefully made for a prestigious owner.
The gold is not hallmarked but has been acid tested.

The plates used for the walls are thick, the construction with mortises and tenons is of high quality.
Beautiful patina of the material..

The key is not present but the lock is functional. I tested it with the key from another box, a small but relatively standard model.

Museum quality piece, strong historical testimony with quality construction and the rare use of gold for all the trimmings.



10 x 15.3 cm
5.2cm high

456 grams



Very good condition. A hinge screw has been replaced and the two lock plate screws do not appear to be original (these three screws are not gold)

Hand delivery in Paris or sending by insured Colissimo.

France: 20
Europe: 25
World: 55