Doe and Hope

Description

Having a hinged lid opening to a candle box to one side, the frieze beautifully initialled 'ES 1778' in studwork and the exterior bearing a wonderful deep patina and rich colour with both flanks being attractively gadrooned. Just as appealing is that this well proportioned box has a working lock and key, though the lock is later, probably having been replaced in the first quarter of the Nineteenth century.

Amongst important events in the year of 1778, France joined America in the declaration of war against England, whilst Captain Cook landed on Maui on his third Pacific expedition. The year also saw the death of the famous French writer and philosopher Voltaire.

The fascinating studwork may well also indicate there is a possibility this could have been a dowry box, but either way, this is a charming piece, in fine order with the dating and initialling making it arguably a more desirable example than others of its kin.