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An English enamel on copper patch box, Bilston/Battersea circa 1780. It features a small, oval copper body with a fluted base completely coated in a smooth vitreous enamel glaze. The domed white lid is attached via a bronze hinged mount. It features a hand-painted sentimental love token or motto ringed with small decorative blue and pink floral swags. The text reads: “My lovely FAIR whom I adore Love or cease to charm me more.”
This Bilston enamel box is a quintessential example of 18th-century English decorative art. Originating in South Staffordshire around the 1770s-1780s, these charming containers were used by both men and women to carry facial patches or “beauty patches” made of silk or velvet) used to cover blemishes or accent features. They were frequently purchased at fashionable resort towns as romantic tokens or gifts. The patches were affixed with a small amount of gum adhesive, which the wearer carried along with the patches themselves — hence the need for a dedicated box. The patch box included a small mirror so that the wearer could check placement while applying.
The patch box measures approximately 1 inch tall by 1.5 inches long and 1.5 inches deep. The box retains it’s original interior mirror, which shows expected oxidation/spotting and desilvering typical of 18th century glass. The patch box generally shows signs of wear consistent with over 200 years of age. It also has some cracks and chips as shown in photos.
The item(s) are antique and sold as is/as found unless otherwise noted. Because they are old, they were used and will not look new or new-like. They likely show wear, fading, scratches, chips, cracks, past repair/restoration, original imperfections and/or damage from normal use. Significant issues are shown in photos. Examine photos carefully as they are part of the description. Imperfections were factored into pricing. No returns or refunds.
Items sold for $100 or more may be shipped with insurance and signature requirement. No responsibility for loss, theft or damage that occurs AFTER your purchase has been delivered to the address you have provided. Any damage to purchase must be reported immediately and photos provided of both the exterior of the box and the damaged item to facilitate the filing of a claim.
