This truly gorgeous box was I think made sometime around the 1870s and in quality is about as good as we find. 
 
Winsor and Newton were a very and justly famous firm based in London and although the name is still familiar today the present business offers nothing like the quality that this box has, its a real stunner!
 
The condition looks as though it’s seen very little use and although I really like the idea of boxes being used it’s still great to see one like this. 
 
It’s possible that the label has had some discreet repairs but if so they were very sensitively done, this one is rich in colour and gorgeous. 
 
The wood used here in the boxes construction is quite unusual in that they are usually quite plain but this one is a real stunner with lots of contrasting grain which is very beautiful. Of course there are a few knocks etc which is not surprising considering it’s great age but nothing detrimental or distracting. In fact the Ebony strips around the edge of the top are very good with no repairs which is very unusual so this one has either been really looked after or little used. 
Internally the paint tray is full of Winsor and Newton paints and all are in really good condition again showing little use. I’m sure that these are mostly if not all the original paints to the box which again is quite rare. 
 
Underneath the paint tray is the original brush tray with a contemporary brush. It’s very nice that this tray is present. Underneath the small labelled palette are a full set of unwrapped watercolour paint sticks which is really very rare to find. 
 
The lower drawer has its original full sized palette which is also labelled. 
 
The brass pin that is lifted to open the lower draw is also original as is the lock and key. 
 
So overall we have here a very well preserved and quite original treasure of a watercolour box. What a gift this would make!
 
Approximately,
22.5cm
20.5 cm
7cm