This beautiful and quite early watercolour paint box was made by the justly famous London firm of Reeves and son around 1840 perhaps a bit earlier maybe. 
 
Later in the century their boxes became of a more standardised size in line with many other makers though of course there were exceptions. 
 
This box follows the form of the Georgian boxes which were often larger and more comprehensive internally at least regarding to paint. 
William Reeves during the 18th century actually invented the moist watercolour which of course revolutionised the art world. The larger of the labels shown here which is located under the paint tray celebrates this. 
 
The smaller label to the front of the box is the makers label. 
The condition of the box is generally very good though with careful inspection we can see that over the years there have been some small repairs which is really quite nice as it shows that this is a working box and has been loved. These were very nicely and sensitively done and in no way distract from such a beautiful thing. 
The wood used here is a lovely rich Mahogany and in patina looks like a piece of Georgian furniture which it probably is. 
 
Internally the paint tray has a full set of paints a few of which are Reeves paints the others seem to be an eclectic collection that look antique though will still work if required. 
 
I said earlier that this is a working box so it’s good to remember that paints are in fact a consumable so we shouldn’t always expect the original paints to be present. I always think it a little sad if all the original paints are there as it probably indicates a lack of use. These things live when used. A lovely original palette in the Georgian style is present and shows a lovely label to the rear. 
 
In the lower drawer are a box of I think Reeves crayons from a later date but useful. There are also two lovely ceramic mixing dishes that look to have been kept very busy! Truly very nice!
 
There is also of a slightly later date a printed advertisement of of paints by Reeves and is very interesting. 
 
The little ring handle on the lower drawer is the original as is the lock on the box. This is has a key and the lock does work but please don’t put too much trust in it. These locks are very old and have done lots of work. Getting locked out of a box is a horrible experience trust me I know!
 
Overall this is a truly lovely working box and will serve its new owner very well. 
Approximately,
29.5 cm
20 cm
7cm