A fascinating 19th-century French ebonised and black-lacquered wooden "Papeterie" (stationery box), featuring stunning gold-leaf rococo scrollwork framing the central gilt title on the lid.
This piece boasts a magnificent piece of social history attached to the inside: an original, beautifully written Victorian presentation label dated Midsummer 1868.
The label reads:
"Presented to Miss Elizabeth Nias for General good conduct & perseverance in her studies. Midsr 1868. Bartholomew Place, Newbury."
Interior & Contents:
The interior features specialised stationery compartments retaining their original gold-stamped labels for "WAFERS" and "MATCHES"—features incredibly rare to find intact on boxes of this age. Tucked inside is an authentic little green metal box with a slide-open lid containing a selection of brass dip pen nibs. Several nibs show ink residue from use.
Condition Report:
Good antique condition consistent with its 150+ year age. The ebonised finish shows minor surface wear, small scuffs, and fine age crackling appropriate for lacquered wood, which adds beautiful antique character. The internal hinges are stable. The internal presentation paper label remains entirely legible and secure. The inside has plenty of ink marks, especially on the inside of the lid, as you'd expect.
Please Note: The box does not include its original key. The lock mechanism is currently set in the open position; the two locking prongs sit up at the top edge of the base rim, meaning the lid rests in place but does not latch down mechanically into a locked state. Please inspect all photos closely for an accurate view of the condition.

Shipping Details:
The item will be securely padded, double-wrapped, and safely packed into a 2kg parcel to ensure it arrives undamaged.
- Domestic: Shipped safely via eBay's simple postal service.
- International: Available worldwide via eBay Global Shipping Programme (GSP).