Fabulous mid-19th century desk set of domed letter box and blotter pad veneered in coromandel wood and surmounted with ornate gothic style pierced brass fittings. Top quality, the box has a brass maker's plaque for "Howell James & Co. 5.7.9 Regent St. Pall Mall" dating from 1838-1884. The company was noted for quality and exhibited at the big exhibitions in London and Paris in the 1850s and 60s. The box is lined in the lid with a blue satiny material and has a fitted letter rack of paper lined wood with black leather trim, missing the intersectional dividers.

The box measures 16.5cm (6 1/4") high, 23cm (9") wide and 11.5cm (4 1/2") deep. The blotter is 29cm (11 1/2") by 21cm (8 1/4"). Condition is good overall. There are some fine stress lines in the wood along the top of the box partly caused by the curving of the dome and from the brass fittings so not damage as such, just part of it's age I think. There is a very small area of missing veneer at the corner on both ends. The brass is all very good, a little tarnish and some old polish residue but no damage or scrapes. There is a small tear to the blue fabric in the lid at either side. There is no key but they are inexpensive to have made should you wish.

The blotter leather back is currently held on with tape so needs tidying up with a strip of leather. The lining paper needs replacing. The veneer on the blotter has a bit of wear and fading and there are some light scuffs on the corners. One of the decorative brass pins is missing on the right hand strap. There is also of course some light surface wear from age and use.