Antique Cognac Leather Top Hat Box with Magenta Silk Lining

Steeped in history and undeniable character, this antique leather top hat box is a striking example of gentlemen’s travel accessories from a bygone era. The exterior features a rich, warm cognac patina and a substantial brass locking mechanism that adds to its old-world charm, while the interior reveals a stunning contrast of vibrant, deep magenta silk lining with original securing strap (a secondary strap appears to be missing).

Condition:
Please note that this piece is being sold as a fragile decorative object due to significant condition issues. The leather is heavily worn and suffering from age-related stress; it is splitting along the edges, and the rear strap that once functioned as a hinge has severed, meaning the lid detaches completely. Additionally, the leather surface has a history of shedding and flaking characteristic of Red Rot. This is chemical deterioration found almost exclusively in leather tanned from 1850 to 1900. During the Industrial Revolution, tanneries began using acidic compounds to speed up production; over a century later, those acids break down the fibers into powder. While it is an age-related issue, it is also a strong validator of its genuine antique age. This box has been wiped down but, it may still transfer if rubbed against clothing. Despite its fragility and need for careful handling, it remains structurally sound and a visually captivating antique, perfect for shelf styling, moody vignettes, or a static display where its history and rich tones can be admired.

Measurements (approximate - rounded to the nearest quarter inch):
14 inches in length
12.5 inches in depth (front to back)
10.25 inches in height (at highest point)

All sales are final so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions prior to purchase. Other objects found in the listing photos are for decorative use only and not included in this purchase.

VINTAGE & ANTIQUE
Vintage and antique items are pre-owned and aged goods. In most cases, we do not clean or polish any items that come into our shop. Once you remove an item's traces of age and patina it's not something you can reverse, so we leave those activities up to the buyer. We do not disassemble found art from their frames unless it is necessary to differentiate a print from an original piece of art. Vintage prints purchased from this shop could originate from any print media (e.g., magazines, books, photographs, art prints, etc.). We try our best to describe items accurately and disclose any and all flaws and imperfections. Please refer to pictures as a visual description. We want to make sure you are happy with your purchase so, please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have prior to checkout.

SHIPPING
As much as possible, we utilize recycled shipping boxes. The box you receive your item in may show signs of wear and pre-use.

PHOTOGRAPHY
All photos are taken in natural light and we do not use any photo filters and do not perform and photo editing (other than basic photo cropping). Depending on your monitor settings, there may be subtle differences in color once you see your item in person.