An exceptionally charming piece of 19th-century social history. Unlike most antique deed boxes found today, this example retains its original working key and features a deeply engraved brass presentation plate linking it directly to a prominent South West family.
 
Key Features & Details:
Provenance: The central brass handle is mounted on an elegant, scalloped nameplate beautifully engraved "P. DE LAGARDE". Research strongly links this to the family of Philip Chilwell de la Garde (1797–1871), a renowned ophthalmic surgeon, civic leader, and Mayor of Exeter (1834), or his immediate heirs (including his grandson Philip, a noted regional naturalist). Having been recently sourced in Dorset, this box boasts fantastic regional provenance on the Devon/Dorset border.
Functionality: Includes the original working key. The lock mechanism turns and secures —a rare find for a box of this age, making it fully usable for storing modern documents, jewellery, or keepsakes.
Aesthetic & Patina: Classic black japanned/enameled finish over heavy tinware (toleware). It features a wonderfully authentic, distressed patina with honest wear, light surface oxidation, and chips to the paintwork that tell the story of over a century of continuous use.
Design: Fitted with a robust brass bow-tie style lifting handle fixed securely with copper rivets.
 
Condition Report:
 
 
 
 
Offered in lovely, honest antique condition. The metalwork is solid with no major dents or structural breaches. The exterior shows a heavily weathered and characterful patina from decades of handling. The lock and key are tested and functional. Please study the high-resolution images carefully to satisfy yourself regarding condition before bidding.
Please look at photos closely as they form part of the item description.
Dimensions 
33.5 cm width, 15.5 cm depth, 13 cm height
About Us
We are a family business and love sourcing unusual pieces which bring a burst of individual style to the most modern of interiors, creating interiors with soul!
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Thanks Dawn & Stephen