Workbox fitted for needlework tools as became popular for upper class houses 1840-60's

Use of work boxes to store and present sewing tools evolved from the use of embroidered bags and chatelaines by 18th century.

Red imitation leather covered wooden box (two pieces) with a silver escutcheon on top, containing tools

Inscription on cartouche "E.de Gez"

needlework box

Finely pointed scissors were made with matching sheaths to protect their points from damage to maintain their value for fine work.

Fine pointed scissors were essential tools for fine embroidery work. A boxed set of tools such as these were the property of of the upper classes

Small silver scissors with ornate handles and shafts

Flowery decoration to handles

Silver stilleto

Floral patterned handle with a tapered fine point

Wax was used to smooth sewing thread, an ear spoon was used to collect wax from the ear canal for this purpose

Silver ear spoon in a sewing etui (may not be original to the box). The ability of early cotton and threads to pass through fabric was improved with the application of wax.

Ear spoon on end of a silver handle with a blunt point

Barley twist in middle of shaft.