Stunning and Rare Example of a well grained Ladys or Gentlemans Coromandel Anglo Indian, possibly Ceylonese, fitted Travelling Sewing or Jewellery Casket of good size proportions. Third quarter of the Nineteenth Century.
The rectangular hinged lidded box opening to reveal a large amount of fitted lidded compartments, with stunning decorative covers using fruit woods and other decorative materials, the entire outer main area constructed with lavish grained Coromandel. Complete with its four original bun supports.
Condition: Good condition, original good surface patination. Lock is present complete with tasseled working key, some old repairs to a few of the inside small covers.
Height: 4.5" (11.5cm). Width: (an impressive) 11.75" (30cm). Depth: 8.25" (21cm).
Location: Dublin City, Ireland.
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Coromandel: also known as Makassar Ebony, is a member of the genus Diospyros and one of the plants commonly known as ebony. Coromandel ebony wood is variegated, streaky brown and black, nearly always wide striped. It is considered a highly valuable wood for turnery, fine cabinet work and joinery.
The tree grows up to 20 meters under favourable circumstances, although such trees are rarely seen nowadays. Since Coromandel ebony has been a woodworker's favorite for centuries, most of it has been felled and used in high quality furniture. The natural area of distribution are some Indonesian islands.As this exceptionally beautiful species of the Ebonies has been much appreciated by woodworkers all over the world through the past 2 centuries it has now become a very scarce and expensive timber. The small available amounts on the market have led to very high prices, Makassar ebony nowadays belongs to the highest priced timbers in the world. The region of growth is quite restricted.