Whenever I am really, really pushed for time, I resort to a guaranteed way of putting off having to buckle down and do things! I click here on the website for Fisher London. I am never disappointed if I look up the ‘latest acquisitions’ – there is always something ‘small but beautifully formed’ which takes my fancy, totally messing up my work plans, and today was no exception. They have what is called a toleware spice box – and I gather that toleware is a generic term for items made of metal, often painted or “japanned” and with links to the kitchen.
It really is splendid – it is only three inches high and just under eight inches wide, but it is a cracker! The site describes it as:
“Dating from the Regency period, an exceptional example of this highly sought- after item: a charming, decorative toleware spice chest `japanned` in black with contrasting neo-classical scrolls, stylised palmette motifs and centred to the lid with a ribboned description, `SPICE`. The lid, which closes on a simple hasp, opens to reveal the individual canisters for the essential spices of the period; ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves and mace. A full-width rectangular compartment would probably have held vanilla pods. The chest also retains the original, matching grater. A truly delightful piece to delight the most discerning collector. Circa 1810-30.”
I love the little canisters labelled for each small amount of spice – none of your catering-sized Barts refills from the Cash and Carry containing enough spice to last you five years! Spice was expensive, and this would have kept it in good condition until it was ready to be used.
To have the original grater as well is a real bonus – this is a piece which was used in every day living, a very direct link to life in a prosperous household 200 years ago. I make no comment on the price – £220 – other than to say – what else can you get this attractive, this complete, this “honest” for that sort of money?
Do have a look at the Fisher London site – Hilary tells me that for the month of March she is also exhibiting in a pop-up shop in Bloomsbury, at 17a Rugby Street. It opens on Saturday 1st and runs until 29th March.
I love boxes and this one is gorgeous.
Thanks.