Antique Pearce of London Vanity Box with Side Drawer and Glass Jars
This antique vanity box, attributed by the maker’s name given in the lot description to Pearce of London, is a dressing case of the kind formerly kept for personal toiletries. It is veneered in a richly figured timber with a deep, warm colour and has an oval mother-of-pearl escutcheon set into the lid and a matching oval escutcheon to the front. A small side drawer slides out from one end and is fitted with blue velvet-lined compartments divided by brass-edged rails. Opening the lid reveals a blue velvet-lined interior with a gilt-bordered panel, while the upper tray holds a set of glass jars with metal lids, including examples with silver-coloured and gilt-coloured tops. The main compartment is lined with timber and divided into sections, reflecting the practical layout of Victorian dressing boxes.
Age-Related Wear with Original Interior Features Intact
The box shows the wear expected of an item of its age, with scuffing and marks to the lid and surfaces, and some light marking to the upper corner. The velvet linings and glass jars appear to be original to the piece, and the mother-of-pearl escutcheons and brass drawer rails add to its period character. Pieces of this type, combining a named maker, a side drawer and a complete set of toilet jars, are of interest to collectors of Victorian boudoir furniture and antique toiletry sets, as well as to buyers seeking a decorative storage piece for a dressing table or bedroom.