It’s been a busy week for valuations at the Saleroom with many fascinating collectables being consigned to auction. Amongst the silverwares and objects, one small box caught the eye of our Valuer Paul Keen. The box was brought along for valuation by a gentleman “sorting out, some bits and pieces” in his home near Tavistock. Whilst looking through the box of ceramics and routine items, Paul spotted a small vibrant green box.

As soon as he picked it up he knew it would be a quality antique lot, and recognised the shape and weight of being that of a desk inkwell. However, this was not a standard Victorian inkwell but a very nice quality Georgian period travelling pen and ink set, and is presented in a beautifully made shagreen box, dating around 1800. These ink sets are highly collectable and sometimes referred to as a writing etui, many of which were made in France. This particular model is fitted with two neat ink wells and an arrangement of various writing implements, including dip pens. The shagreen exterior is in fact a type of rawhide consisting of rough untanned skin, often from a shark.

Paul says “this box screams quality, the green shagreen is bright and vibrant, the fittings are in original order and we expect collectors will be keen to acquire this rarity”.

The owner was equally as excited to hear about this object that has simply been sat in a drawer for years, and also with the valuation of £300.

The box will be coming up for auction on Wednesday 2nd February 2022. If you have an interesting object, get in touch for an expert opinion and valuation.

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