Antique early 20th century 1920s old English work box tin for sewing etc. This very charming box has, over its 100 plus years, suffered some age related wear which only adds to the look. Being larger than most tins, it would look amazing as a stand out piece!!
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23 cm wide 19 cm depth 18 cm tall
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Old English work box tins, often called sewing or needlework boxes, typically date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and were made of various materials like wood, papier-mâché, or occasionally tin. These boxes were not typically made of tin, but rather were designed to hold sewing supplies and other small items. Tin boxes became popular for packaging and storage, especially for biscuits, later in the 19th century. Early Sewing Boxes:
Materials:
Early work boxes were often made of wood, sometimes inlaid with various materials or veneered with exotic woods like mahogany, rosewood, or kingwood.
Function:
These boxes were primarily used to hold sewing tools, needles, threads, and other small haberdashery items.
Design:
They often featured compartments, trays, and other organizers to keep items neatly arranged.
Evolution:
The designs evolved, with later boxes incorporating papier-mâché and decorative elements.
Tin Boxes for Storage and Packaging:Tinplate:
Tinplate, a thin steel sheet coated with tin, became more common in the mid-19th century.
Early Use:
Initially, large square tins were used by companies like Huntley & Palmers to package and display biscuits.
Versatile Packaging:
Tin boxes were later used for various products like tobacco, cosmetics, and other items, in addition to food.
Decorative:
Tin boxes featured printed lithographs and artistic designs, reflecting the styles of the times.
In Summary:
While early work boxes were typically made of wood or papier-mâché, tin boxes became popular later for packaging and storage, particularly for biscuits and otheritems. The design and decoration of tin boxes reflected the changing styles and technologies of the era.