This is a large Victorian Mauchline Ware string or spool holder, in the Transfer Ware finish showing 2 images of Glasgow, & dating to around 1870 -90.

The holder is made of copal varnished sycamore, & is in the form of a globe or ball standing on three small legs.

The interior of the box is unvarnished

The two halves of the box fit together in the centre by means of a 'push fit', with the top half having a protruding lip & a turned hole on the top. The spool of string or wool would be placed in the box, with the end of the string being fed through the hole, thus keeping the spool of string tidy & tangle free.

The handle of the box is a short length of cord which has been threaded through two small holes either side of the main 'string' hole, & knotted to the inside.

There are two transfer printed scenes on either side of the box entitled 'GEORGE SQUARE, GLASGOW', and 'TRONGATE, GLASGOW'.

Condition is excellent, with no damage at all. The box has it's original legs, which is unusual as these are quite thin & fragile and prone to breaking off.

The box stands approx 4 1/4" in height, & 4" in diameter (11 cm x 10.3 cm).

Overall, a scarce box, particularly in this condition which is fantastic for it's 130 odd years.