Bilston Battersea Enamels Motto Box "Long may you live and be Happy" England
Description: A vintage beautiful lidded enamel on copper oval motto box by Bilston and Battersea Enamels of England. The box has a flat base slightly extending outwards with straight rising sides. The box has a hinged lid that looks very much like the antique (18th century) Battersea enameled patch or trinket boxes in shape and profile. The lid of the box is decorated with colorful transfer showing berry branches surrounding a motto which says "Long may you live and be Happy" and having a bow on top. The branch has green leaves and red berries and the bow being light blue in color. The sides and the bottom of the box are purplish coral in color. The inside of the box is white with the inside of the lid having a line drawing of a horn hanging with a ribbon having flowers and leaves. This drawing is in black under glaze. The brass hinged lid has a small outwards extending thumb piece to help open the lid, which closes tightly. The top of the lid is recessed in the center and displays flatness which is rather unusual in such boxes. The box is marked as to the maker on the bottom and has a paper label with the "B" of Bilston. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Unknown but most likely sometime in 1970s-1990s.
Origin: England.
Size: The box measures ~1 3/4" by ~1 3/8" at the base and is ~1" high to the top of the lid. The box weighs slightly over one ounce.
Maker: Bilston and Battersea.
Marks: Marked on the bottom with the Bilston and Battersea mark consisting of the words "Bilston and Battersea Enamels Made in England" in an oval with the letters “BB†in the center. It also has an affixed paper label with the letter B in its center.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful vintage piece, which would make a great addition to any collection.
Condition: The box is in very good condition with no chips, no cracks, and no repairs. The lid and hinge are intact and the lid closes well and tight. The top of the lid is recessed in the center and displays flatness which is rather unusual in such boxes. In general, the box is great looking, clean, and is great condition. A worthy addition to any collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.
