Measuring 61/2in wide by 5in deep x 3in high (16 x 13 x 8cm), it is profusely inlaid with filigree flowerheads and diaper work and applied with cast ring handles and four gilt ball feet.
Inside the casket is inscribed: this box was given to me on my marriage by Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Clarence, E.P. Brownlow July A.D. 1828.
Featuring in the catalogue under the foreign silver section (but given no country of origin) and ascribed to the early 19th century, it was thought by the American collector who bought it to be slightly earlier and made in China for the export trade. It made three times its estimate at £1700.
American answer to puzzle of royal box
UK: ATTRACTING the most attention at of the Shrewsbury sale held by Halls (buyer’s premium 10 per cent) on April 14 was this enigmatic parcel gilt box, right.
