Vintage Sterling Silver Pill or Snuff Box - Peter John Doherty - Birmingham 1994 - C3100

Summary

A finely constructed sterling silver rectangular pill or snuff box with linear reeding, a vacant rectangular cartouche, gilt interior and closely fitted hinged lid.

Description

This sterling silver box was made by Peter John Doherty, a Birmingham manufacturing silversmith associated with finely made boxes and small silver objects, and hallmarked in Birmingham in 1994.

The rectangular body has softly rounded corners and closely spaced linear reeding extending around the sides and across the lid. On the upper surface the lines form a geometric border around a plain rectangular cartouche, which remains vacant and suitable for engraving.

The lid is exceptionally closely fitted, with the hinge incorporated into the rear edge so that very little of the mechanism is visible when the box is closed. It closes by friction against the precisely fitted body rather than using a projecting catch, leaving the exterior almost uninterrupted.

The interior is fully gilt washed. At 73.3 grams for a box measuring only 5.1 cm across, it has considerable weight for its size.

Peter John Doherty's recorded work spans from the 1970s into the late 1990s, with PJD Silver Ltd used from 1995. He specialised in silver boxes and commissioned silverware, and examples of his work are noted for their close fitting construction and traditional box making techniques. His workshop also undertook work for firms including Asprey, Garrard and Hamilton & Inches.

The discreet hinge construction, sometimes described in the trade as a Laurencekirk type hinge, is designed to become almost invisible when the box is closed.

Condition

Very good vintage condition with only very light surface wear consistent with age and careful use. The reeded decoration remains crisp, the gilt interior is clean and the lid fits and closes correctly.

Approximate Measurements

• Length: 5.1 cm [2.01 in]
• Width: 3.8 cm [1.50 in]
• Height: 1.4 cm [0.55 in]
• Weight: 73.3 g [2.59 oz]
• Material: sterling silver
• Interior: gilt washed
• Maker: Peter John Doherty
• Hallmark: Birmingham 1994
• Decoration: linear reeding with vacant rectangular cartouche
• Closure: friction fit hinged lid

Stock Code: C3100 SP26-4

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