This is a rare box and a good sized one by the very famous and highly collectible Charles Roberson. Robersons were a very large and influential business in fact many suppliers had an account with them. Roberson most definitely had a finger on the artistic pulse of his time and was there for a long time. They were makers of items of a very high quality as is this box. 
 
This was made perhaps as early as 1853 and if looked after will still be working in another hundred years. It’s paint surface may show wear but the box is very strong. It is also nice that it hasn’t been touched up. It doesn’t need it the box is fully functional. 
 
Internally the paint is quite good and this box is full of ceramic pans half of which are full size and some at least appear original to the box. 
 
The half pans that occupy the other half of the box are nearly all by Winsor and Newton so you may be completely sure that the box is full of quality. 
 
Imagine how those pans would look with your own colours in them. 
This box really is the perfect system it seems to me. Not only are there pans for many colours but your favourites can be present in twice the amount! And obviously as soon as they are used up you simply wash out the pans and refill. These pans will also last all of your painting career.  
These pans could be the perfect invitation for you to start making your own paints? Take it from me it’s fun and addictive!
 
Together with this box is an original Drawing block again made by Roberson. The back of its wrapper has been opened but to me it looks as though all twelve sheets are present. If I’m wrong there are eleven. The only way to check is to unwrap the block further but I’m not about to do that it’s gorgeous as is. 
 
This is a wonderful opportunity to buy real quality and history but also to own if not a perfect watercolour system that is easy to maintain a really good one in my opinion. 
 
Thank you very much for your interest.