Workbox
1790-1810 (made)
| Place of origin |
Straw marquetry was known as early as the 17th century, but it was most popular in the period 1780–1830 in France and Britain. The straw was split and flattened, then glued into place on thin paper on which the design had been drawn. This was then glued to a wooden carcase, which was usually covered first with a thicker paper. The maker could divide the straw into two, four or more strips, depending on the fineness needed for the design. Colour could be added to the surface with various varnishes, which also enhanced the glossy appearance of the marquetry. Straw marquetry was most suitable for small objects such as tea chests or work boxes but occasionally larger pieces of furniture were decorated in this way. Because straw work is very fragile, it is rare for pieces to survive in good condition.
Object details
| Category | |
| Object type | |
| Parts | This object consists of 5 parts.
|
| Materials and techniques | Wood, veneered in straw marquetry |
| Brief description | workbox, veneered in straw marquetry, English, 1790-1810 |
| Physical description | Workbox, decorated with coloured straw marquetry in a variety of patterns. The interior contains a tray divided into four compartments, two with hinged lids. The front opens downwards to reveal three drawers. The lid and drawers have handles of carved bone. |
| Credit line | Given by Lady Corey |
| Object history | Original accession paperwork notes 'Made in England by a French Prisoner of War'. |
| Summary | Straw marquetry was known as early as the 17th century, but it was most popular in the period 1780–1830 in France and Britain. The straw was split and flattened, then glued into place on thin paper on which the design had been drawn. This was then glued to a wooden carcase, which was usually covered first with a thicker paper. The maker could divide the straw into two, four or more strips, depending on the fineness needed for the design. Colour could be added to the surface with various varnishes, which also enhanced the glossy appearance of the marquetry. Straw marquetry was most suitable for small objects such as tea chests or work boxes but occasionally larger pieces of furniture were decorated in this way. Because straw work is very fragile, it is rare for pieces to survive in good condition. |
| Other number | 1918/1242 - RF number |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | W.15:1-1918 |
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| Record created | June 24, 2009 |
| Record URL |
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