Antique Victorian late 19th century leather bound probably oak jewelry box velvet and silk lined stunning looking item some age related wear shows it's age ( displayed with other items for sale separately not included) amazing brass handle and lovely shield shape escutcheon ( unfortunately key missing) 
10 cm tall 
15 cm depth 
20 cm wide 
Antique leather-bound jewelry boxes evolved from ancient Egyptian luxury items into 19th-century status symbols and practical storage, with elaborate French and British styles featuring gold tooling and Morocco leather linings becoming popular, while the Industrial Revolution made them accessible to a broader market, with bespoke protective outer cases made for travel. 
Early Origins & Status Symbol (Ancient Times - 18th Century)
Ancient Egypt: Jewelry boxes were luxurious items made from gold and precious stones, serving as storage for valuable jewelry.
Royal & Elite Use: For much of history, jewelry boxes were symbols of wealth, owned by royalty and high society to store and display treasures.
18th Century: Boxes became more decorative, influenced by French design, with intricate craftsmanship becoming a hallmark of prestigious items. 
Height of Craftsmanship (19th Century - Victorian Era) 
Intricate Leatherwork: High-quality, hand-tooled leather boxes with brass fittings and intricate designs became fashionable.
Materials: Fine leathers, particularly Morocco leather, known for its softness and resilience, were used for linings and trays.
Status Symbol: The Victorian era's collecting trend amplified the jewelry box's role as a status symbol, showcasing wealth and taste.
Travel Cases: Bespoke, durable leather outer cases lined with sheepskin were created to protect valuable boxes and their contents during journeys. 
Industrialization & Modernity (Late 19th Century - Present)
Industrial Revolution: Mass production made jewelry boxes more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.
Mid-20th Century: The post-war period saw new designs emerge, including popular musical boxes from Switzerland.
Modern Era: Today, a variety of materials are used, but antique and vintage leather styles remain highly sought after by collectors. 
Key Features & Craftsmanship
Gold Tooling: Leather interiors were often elaborately decorated with gold tooling.
Maker's Marks: Retailers and makers would stamp or tool their names onto brass plates or leather, often hidden in compartments.
Morocco Leather: Valued for its suppleness and strength, this leather, tanned with sumac, was used for linings.
Bespoke Features: Hidden compartments, such as letter wallets lined with leather, were commo