Browse Catalog Art, works on paper Books Devotional Folk Art General Antiques Jewelry, European, Deco, enameled Jewelry, Tribal, Mexican, Native America Mexican Native American Photography & Ephemera Scientific/Medical Silver Textiles Battersea satirical patch box, 18th c. at Old Town Antiques 2" wide x 1" deep A rare patch box. These arose after smallpox had ravaged the populace in the 18th century. "Patches" were small cloth pieces used as "beauty marks," often used to cover smallpox scars. This little box is painted enamel over copper. One of the fun things about this box is the satirical decor... Typical of the time, this is mocking or, at least, poking fun at, marriage. This depicts the faces of a man and woman. If you look at them in one position, they are smiling at each other. But, turn it 180 degrees and they´re frowning at each other. The text says..."Before Marriage..." and on the other side "After Marriage." I´ve heard that some of these had mirrors inside and this one does not currently. If a mirror is missing, it is not obvious. The box is in excellent antique condition with the following noted: 1 1/4" chip to the blue enamel on the exterior; some soil and discoloration around the rim of the lid and inside the box. A rare and wonderful thing! Please Inquire for Price Sorry! This item is not currently available.   .: Site by Virgo Media :.