Victorian Walnut Travelling Vanity Case (c.1846)

An Exceptional Piece of Social History Featuring Silver by Renowned Female Silversmith Ann Reid 200-year-old Victorian walnut vanity case. Beautifully preserved and designed for a high-society travelling lady, this campaign-style box combines master-class woodwork with rare, historically significant English silver. Rare Female-Crafted Silver: The ornate, intricately chased silver vanity tops are fully hallmarked for London, 1846, bearing the coveted maker’s mark of Ann Reid. Female silversmiths of the 19th century are highly sought after; Ann Reid successfully took over the renowned Reid workshop in 1843, making this cohesive, multi-piece suite an exceptional find. ​Stunning Walnut & Brass Cabinetry: The exterior boasts a richly figured, warm walnut grain, beautifully framed by flush-fitted brass corner brackets and delicate inlay work designed to withstand the rigors of 19th-century travel. ​The Velvet Upper Tier: Opening the box reveals a luxurious, vibrant deep blue velvet interior. It perfectly houses the original suite of fine cut-glass jars, scent bottles, and an elongated accessory box—all capped with Ann Reid’s masterful silverwork. ​Secret Mirror & Document Pouch: Ingeniously engineered, the interior lid features a removable leather-bound mirror panel that drops down to reveal a secondary, gold-tooled purple leather document wallet hidden behind it. ​Lower Jewellery Drawer: Designed with security and elegance in mind, the lower portion of the case features a smooth-sliding, dedicated travelling jewellery drawer. Lined in deep blue satin, it includes specialized compartments, ring rolls, and a watch well to keep precious gems secure on the road. ​Condition Report ​This vanity case is in wonderful antique condition given its age. The walnut wood shows a beautiful, deep patina with minimal wear. The brasses are bright and flush. The interior velvet and leather remain remarkably vibrant, showing only minor, authentic signs of travel use. The silver tops are crisp with clear hallmarks.