Georgian Captains Military Writing Box by Hewlins, St Martins Lane

The magnificent box is constructed of dense solid Mahogany with thick inlaid brass strapping attached by countersunk steel slot screws, there are several brass straps on each corner and two that run parallel from the back to the front of the box. The sides have sturdy brass carry handles each with ornate backplates.

Lifting the lid reveals a removable tray that houses two inkwells and a pen tray. Underneath this tray is more storage space and is where a secret compartment lies! Squeezing the front wall next to the small box on the left-hand side causes a false wall to spring forward allowing access to a secret drawer with a ribbon handle.

The underside of the lid has a hinged cover which again can only be accessed by pressing the middle lock keep forward with your thumb, once done it springs open so you can fold down revealing its original green cross ribbon letter compartment and the rare manufacturer’s label that reads: “Hewlins from St Martins Lane. Cabinet Maker Upholsterer & Undertaker, No.2 Strand near Northumberland House”
On the right-hand edge of the open box is a magnificent large steel key, which has location points on each side of the box and contains large threaded screws that come out the bottom of the box. This allows the box to be secured for stability on sea or land and to stop any thieves from helping themselves to it.

The box is very heavy, robust and certainly fit for Military manoeuvres, such a rare example with wonderful colour and patination throughout, comes with a tasselled key and a working lock.