English Knife Box in Honduran Mahogany and Marquetry Case

This exquisite English knife box dates from the mid-19th century and is a marvelous example of early Victorian-era dining accessories.

Crafted from Honduran mahogany, a prized wood known for its rich color and durability, this wonderful cutlery holder would have certainly been in a household of status and wealth. Marquetry inlays of fine banding and medallion patterns adorn the exterior of the knife box and are a testament to the skill of the craftsman of the era.

The knife holder is designed with a serpentine slant front case, which opens to reveal an interior fitted with compartments for knives and various cutlery. The interior of the knife box is equally beautiful and adorned with marquetry inlays between each cutlery space and a shell motif on the inside lid. A rich darker finish as the background adds a beautiful contrast to the exterior.

This English knife box is a rare and valuable piece of antique tableware. Its exceptional craftsmanship, stunning design, and historical significance make it a noteworthy piece still capable of practical use today.

Circa 1840