This beautiful box was made by the justly famous Winsor and Newton of London around 1870
The condition it seems to me can only be described as excellent and is made from a richly coloured Mahogany that is in a very good state of preservation. Of course there are a few scratches and handling marks but this should be expected in a working box that has lived through two world wars and then some!
As you may able see the inside of the lid wears a lovely richly coloured maroon label that harmonises very well with the outer wood. This then is contrasted in a celebratory way with gorgeous Gold leaf or foil giving us the makers details. 
Personally I’m very fond of these maroon labelled boxes as they do look very sophisticated. The blue ones are lovely also but these darker labels seem to carry a quiet air of confidence. 
Internally the box and contents are very nice with a full set of old paints some of which are Winsor & Newton made. However all of the paints work and would even after all those years still allow you to create that long awaited masterpiece. 
There is a good marked palette on which to mix those paints. This sits on a wooden support which by the aid of the small ribbons allows the palette to be lifted clear thus giving access to the lower level that contains antique /vintage chalk sticks for
You will notice I’m sure that the original brass pin which is used to lock the lower drawer is present as is the mixing palette housed in the lower drawer. This proudly wears its makers stamp, it has never been broken and is as lovely as it is useful. 
Finally the original lock is present and works very well although the little latch that receives the lock bolt is a bit bent but does not seem to affect the locking of the box. These very old locks can be quite temperamental sometimes though it is working here with me with the key provided. 
This is a lovely item and as useful today as it always was. It is a fine thing to have around and I’m sure it will increase in value. 
Approximately,
23cm
18cm
6.5cm