Regency work box /Jewellery Box

A Regency rosewood work box dating to the early 19th century, circa 1830s. The piece features a sarcophagus lid decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay in a pattern of foliate scrollwork. The box rests on bun feet and includes a working key. The interior is original.
These boxes were designed mainly as sewing boxes but they can equally be used as beautiful jewellery boxes.

Length 30.5 cm · Width 22.5 cm · Height 16 cm

While this piece is unsigned, as was typical for domestic woodenware of the Regency period, it reflects the high standard of early nineteenth-century British box making. During this era, skilled cabinetmakers and specialized workshops produced refined work boxes crafted from exotic timbers such as rosewood, often embellished with delicate mother-of-pearl inlay. These anonymous artisans catered to affluent households, creating functional objects of exceptional craftsmanship. Today, period rosewood boxes remain sought after by collectors for their fine materials, decorative elegance, and historical appeal.