Victorian Campaign Military Artist Watercolour Box Reeves & Sons War Department

Scarce Victorian campaign military artist's watercolour box by the famous Reeves & Sons of 113 Cheapside, London. War department stamps, along with the initial 'I', believed to stand for 'India'. Mid-late 19th century.

The broad arrow with the initial I appears on the brass cartouche, the lock, four glazed pottery dishes in the drawer and the tin box.

Made of mahogany, with handmade dovetail construction to the sides. The box has brass corners and strap work, and a flush inlaid brass handle to the lower drawer. It retains the original key to the brass lock by Hamilton & Co, which is in working order. The lock is stamped, 'Eccentric lever lock Maker to the Royal Mint Hamilton & Co.'

The beautifully proportioned box opens to reveals an oval gilt maker's label to the interior of the lid. There is another maker's paper label under the pen slope. The box is filled with artist's equipment, including paint blocks, pencils and other items. There is a pin to the front, which when removed enables the bottom drawer to be opened. This drawer is fitted with four glazed pottery dishes, and filled with more artist's materials. Please refer to the photographs for extensive images of the interior.

The box is in original used condition. The lid opens and closes well, as does the drawer. There are signs of use, marks and knocks, from a well used box. There is some filler to the right hand dovetail construction to note.