185/11: A splendid and relatively rare PAIR of 18th century serpentine-fronted mahogany Cutlery or Knife Boxes in original condition. The sloping tops are veneered in finely-figured "flame" mahogany, and open to reveal the fully fitted interiors, which are capable of holding well over 100 pieces of cutlery between them, whilst the inside of the lids are inlaid with boxwood and ebony stars. The handles are escutcheons are engraved Old Sheffield Plate, whilst both the top and fronts are beautifully crossbanded in tulipwood between boxwood lines. A lovely par of boxes. **NB: Usually referred to as "Knife Boxes" these are actually fitted and intended to store all types of cutlery, including spoons; forks; carving knife & fork, and even pickle spoons. c.1780

Boxes, Knife, mahogany, object, pair