Victorian Papier Mache Jewellery Box - Malvern Priory Church, Worcester. Key.

A beautiful Victorian papier mâché jewellery box dating to around 1880, featuring a finely decorated hinged lid depicting Great Malvern Priory Church in Worcester, signed "Malvern" to the lower left. The 19th century picturesque scene is enhanced with shimmering mother-of-pearl inlay, creating a wonderful stained-glass effect as it catches the light.

Finished in traditional black japanned lacquer with colourful hand-painted decoration and gilt detailing, this charming box is very much in the style of the celebrated Birmingham makers Jennens & Bettridge, whose luxurious papier mâché wares became highly fashionable during the Victorian period. While this example is unmarked, it shares many of the decorative qualities that made their work so desirable, including the rich lacquer finish, hand-painted ornament and iridescent mother-of-pearl inlay.

The box opens on its original brass hinges to reveal its original vibrant pink satin-lined interior and retains its original working lock complete with a working key. Whether used for jewellery, treasured keepsakes or simply displayed as part of a collection, it is a wonderfully decorative piece of Victorian craftsmanship.

Good antique condition overall.

The exterior displays beautifully with the expected age-related craquelure to the lacquer, light surface wear, small scuffs and minor losses to the decoration consistent with a piece of this age (see pics). The mother-of-pearl inlay remains particularly attractive and catches the light beautifully.

The original pink satin lining has honest signs of age and use, including staining, fading, tears, worn areas and losses to the fabric, all clearly shown in the photographs. The brass hinges are secure, and the lock is fully working with its original key included.

• Width: 17 cm (6.7 inches)
• Depth: 12 cm (4.7 inches)
• Height: 7 cm (2.75 inches)