17th Century William and Mary Floral Marquetry Olive Oyster Lace Box, Circa 1680

Object Description

A fine and rare 17th century William and Mary olive oyster marquetry lace box, circa 1670-1690. England

The ovolo-moulded and holly banded top is centred by an oval of marquetry depicting spring flowers bordered in oysters of olive finely strung to each side and quartered in a similar fashion, all on a ground of ebony.

The frieze is decorated to the face and each side with fine oval reserves of marquetry, and olive oyster veneered, raised on a cross-grain olive convex moulding.

The box opens to reveal what appears to be the original mercury mirror plate in the original frame bordered in a silvered braid and lined in silk.

It should be noted that very few fine marquetry lace boxes from the 17th century are known and this example is particularly accomplished in all aspects.

Object Literature

The box relates to a marquetry table housed in Levens Hall that was probably supplied by the London cabinet maker Thomas Pistor to James Graham, a friend and courtier to James, Duke of York (later James II). in 1684. Adam Bowett ‘English Furniture 1669-1714, From Charles II to Queen Anne’. Plate 4:20, Page: 116.
Percy MacQuoid ‘A History of English Furniture’ pl. 269, pg. 126
The Victoria and Albert Museum – Accession Number: W.51-1925.

Object Condition

Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Superb original condition. The box is of very good colour and is richly patinated.

Object Details