This Antique James Newman watercolour box is a stunning example.


This is really a fine watercolour box by the great James Newman of 24 Soho Square London.


The box appears to be made from solid Mahogany which is in my opinion a very good choice. It has a deep rich colour which seems to exude confidence.

And indeed it does come from a time of great confidence which I believe was around 1850 maybe a little earlier.


Inside the lovely strong box is found an almost complete set of its original paints. I think only one? is a replacement but a genuine 19th century block all the same.


It is interesting to note that these paints would work just as well as they ever did. And paints of this maker are very good and we’re justly praised at the time.


In the lower drawer there is found the original mixing tray with the makers name to the rear.

The lower draw drawer is held closed by a brass pin and once again this appears to be the original.


There is with this box a 19th century water bowl. I doubt that the box had one originally but it is a nice and useful additional the same.


This is a superb watercolour box and one of smaller proportions that would easily fit into the modern home.


Approx, 22.5 x 11 x 6.5 cm



All of these fine wooden watercolour boxes are disappearing all to quickly and this I’m sure is a sound investment.

When I started to collect these things over 40 years ago there were many more around and they were on the whole relatively inexpensive. Since then they have become much scarcer and the prices for them have gone up considerably.

I really can’t see this changing!


A key which is not original does work the lock though personally I would not trust it too far! These old locks can be sometimes a bit temperamental!


Please note that the larger 17th century artist box underneath the box is not included.