Box

The symbol of Britannia became popular in the 18th century. It was used to adorn many small objects such as boxes and fans. The symbol stood for Britain's growing commercial and naval power.

The lid of the oval enamel box is decorated with a handcoloured transfer print of Britannia sitting beside a lion with masts of shipping behind, enclosed by a green leaf border. The base of the box is enamelled in white with a painted string and ribbon pattern in green, pink and black. The interior is of white enamel. Such boxes were made in the Midlands, especially at Bilston and Birmingham, and sold by London shopkeepers.