λ A SINHALESE TORTOISESHELL LIDDED BOX MADE FOR THE EUROPEAN MARKET
Possibly Ceylon or Galle, Sri Lanka, mid to late 19th century

λ A SINHALESE TORTOISESHELL LIDDED BOX MADE FOR THE EUROPEAN MARKET
Possibly Ceylon or Galle, Sri Lanka, mid to late 19th century

With an oval profile and four cusped edges, resting on a flat plain base, the lid and base made of two single-carved tortoiseshell panels pinned onto smaller side panels, with Western silver mounts, lock and fittings, the hinged lid with a Western parcel-gilt monogram in the centre reading CA, 6cm x 21.5cm x 15cm.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, tortoiseshell boxes like this were prized possessions in Europe and were considered the ultimate exotica piece to have in every prestigious interior. Often used as jewellery caskets, these boxes were especially popular among Western women, who would often have them fitted with silver locks to safely store their heirlooms.

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