Coromandel Jewellery Box by George Betjemann with Malachite

Description Brass Strapped with Malachite Medallions An antique Coromandel jewellery box by George Betjemann & Sons, veneered in exotic Coromandel and mounted with distinctive brass strapping set with polished malachite roundels. The jewellery box is constructed in a strong rectangular form with a domed lid, the exterior framed by extensive brass banding running from front to back, secured with prominent rivets. Each strap is decorated with vibrant malachite panels bordered by rope twist detailing, creating a striking contrast against the deep figured Coromandel veneer. The interior is fully lined in rich magenta silk and fitted with a removable tray containing three lidded compartments alongside mother of pearl winders and a selection of solid gold and silver accessories including scissors, pen, penknife, pick, and a finely detailed notebook complete with engraved border and watercolour decoration. Beneath the tray sits further storage suitable for jewellery, dressing items, or travelling valuables. A retailer’s plaque for T. A. Simpson & Co., 154 Regent Street, London is mounted to the interior, a respected West End address known for supplying high quality luxury goods during the nineteenth century. The box was almost certainly manufactured by George Betjemann & Sons, one of England’s most recognised makers of premium fitted boxes. Retaining its original travel case, this Coromandel jewellery box dates to the late nineteenth century, circa 1875, during the height of the Victorian period when exotic timbers and elaborate fitted interiors were highly sought after by affluent travellers. Boxes combining Coromandel veneer with malachite mounts are rarely encountered, particularly with surviving accessories and outer case, making this a highly desirable example for collectors of Betjemann boxes and antique jewellery boxes alike. See further pieces from our Jewellery Box collection. For a complimenting design tea caddy click here. The Coromandel and Malachite Travel Box comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key. Measurements (Inches) 5.9 High x 12.2 Wide x 9 Deep Literature Mark Goodger Antiques The Exceptional Catalogue Page 26 TA Simpson & Co (Thomas Simpson) TA Simpson & Co. were Goldsmiths and Jewellers operating from 154 Regent St. London and also 34 Rue De Rivoli in Paris. The business was founded circa 1856. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Thomas Simpson. George Betjemann & Sons George Betjemann started as an apprentice cabinet maker from a young age working for his Father in Law. In 1848, his two sons George William Betjemann and John Betjemann joined him under apprenticeships until 1846 when George William Betjemann started his own business with his two sons. In 1859 George moved to a new premises on Pentonville road, London. This was when the business became known as ‘Betjemann & Sons’. John Betjemann was grandfather of the later famous poet laureate Sir John Betjemann. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on George Betjemann & Sons. Coromandel Coromandel is a valuable wood found in India, Sri Lanka and South East Asia. It has a contrasting hazel-brown colour with black grain. It is a dense, heavy wood that is so popular it has been logged to extinction over the last few hundred years. This makes Calamander pieces even more special. For further information see our woods encyclopaedia on Coromandel. Victorian  Victorian period an era of British History corresponding approximately with the reign of Queen Victoria from the 20th of June 1837 until her death on 22 January 1901 however, there are arguments stating that the Victorian era is actually from 1820 until 1914 proceeded by Georgian era and followed by the Edwardian era. Jewellery / Jewelery / Jewelry In the UK and Australia the English spelling rule states that the final consonant of a word should be doubled when its added suffix begins with a vowel. Therefore the spelling ‘jewellery’ is used. This rule usually applies to instances where the final syllable ends with a vowel followed by a single consonant such as: Jeweller. The spelling variation ’Jewelry’ is thought to have had some popularity as a preferred ‘poetic’ or ‘rhetorical’ spelling in British English. ‘Jewellery and Jewelery’ is used in the US, the confusion continues with the correct spelling variant being ’Jewelery’ according to the Oxford English Dictionary. Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques? With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide. Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality. Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades. When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.