Posted 11 years ago
pdesorm
(5 items)
Found this in a $2 box at an auction. Mystery container. Shaped like a hat box, silver colored metal with brass trimming. Inside is a porcelain ointment pot (I believe). Bottom is serrated. I think it's to fill with water and put on the wood stove or heater to act as a double boiler to keep a salve or lotion warm. 2" high by 3" across by 2.5" deep. Why a hat box shape? Let me know what you think.
My first thought was an inkwell, though that doesn't explain the hatbox shape...
I'd go with late Victorian inkwell too hunter. Made in a decorative shape to create interest and sell.
scott
Thanks for your thoughts. It does look like a ceramic inkwell. Here is a link for a teak box. The only worry I have is that the hat box would have been pretty unstable. It's not easy to open and is even top heavy with the lid open. Could the ceramic ointment pot have been added later and has nothing to do with the box? Hmmmm
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Teak-Inkwell-w-Ceramic-Liner-Admiral-Jellicoe-HMS-Iron-Duke-Jutland-WW1-/360722811901?pt=UK_Home_Garden_PensPencils_WritingEquipment_SM&hash=item53fcc14bfd#ht_5065wt_1362