Marc Collinson's Despatch Box
Marc Collinson's Despatch Box
A black leather Despatch Box by Wickwar & Co. of 6 Poland Street.
The front chamfered edge of the box has a brass plaque engraved 'Mr. Marc Collinson.' Stamped in gilt to the front edge of the lid and to the top is 'No. 1. B.' suggesting that the owner had more than one Despatch Box. The lid has a brass swan neck handle to the centre of the top.
The maker's details are stamped to the left of the lock with 'Manufacturers to H.M. Staty. Office.' to the right, which is fairly typical of Wickwar. The lock is a sprung Bramah, so will self-lock and there is evidence of attempts to force it open. They key has been replaced. The interior of the box is also lined in leather and has a raised lip to the edges to ensure a good fit to the top. This is a large Despatch Box but a common size for Wickwar.
It is probable that this box belonged to Marc Cunningham Collinson, born 2nd February 1835. He worked in the Patent Office in London and lived at 18 (and then 22) Castlenau Villas, Barnes. Collinson died in September 1884. His dates and job would fit in with Wickwar who were active from 1823 to 1899. Late 19th century.
Dimensions:
Late 19th century.
Leather on softwood
England
Marc Collinson, Wickwar stamps
Despatch Box
Key replaced. Some bruising around lock. General wear.
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 Castlenau Villas, Barnes. Collinson died in September 1884. His dates and job would fit in with Wickwar who were active from 1823 to 1899. Late 19th century.){kind=link}