Signed Georgian English Bilston Enamelware Box c1780, Esteem the Giver

Note - please email me for more pictures for any items you are interested in - thanks!

Offered is an excellent and well-preserved 18th Century enamelware box from the Bilston area, circa 1780. This box is enameled on the sides and bottom in a deep royal blue, and is painted in enamels on the front with a theme of doves at the nest and the words "Esteem the Giver" (the "f" being used for the "s" at this date). The interior is enameled in white and appears to be signed with a workman's mark or shop mark (see detail pictures). Signatures of any kind are extremely uncommon on these boxes. Several other examples of this design are extant, but none appear to be signed.

This box measures about 2 1/8" in length, 1 3/8" wide, and 1" deep. Condition is good overall, with some scuffs on the bottom and minor losses to the enamels at the edges, as is normal with these. There is modest discoloration where the interior white enamel meets the metal, as is typical. There are no hairlines, cracks, or repairs noted, and no major chips. Overall, this is an exceptionally well-preserved box with a very rare workman's mark. It is nicely painted and the colors are still bright; it would display beautifully.