Antique Edwardian Sterling Silver Reynolds Angels Trinket Box, Henry Matthews, Birmingham 1903

A decorative antique Edwardian sterling silver trinket box, crafted by Henry Matthews and hallmarked for Birmingham 1903. The hinged lid is richly embossed with the well-known Reynolds Angels design, creating an elegant and highly recognisable example of early 20th-century English silver vanity ware.

The shaped oval form is enhanced by softly rounded sides, a beaded border and a warm gilt interior. Measuring approximately 13 cm in length and weighing 110.5 grams, the box has a substantial presence while remaining practical for storing jewellery, keepsakes or other small personal items.

The strong hinge allows the lid to close securely. With its identifiable Birmingham maker, distinctive angel decoration and attractive gilded interior, this is a characterful collector’s piece with clear decorative appeal.

Details

• Item: Antique sterling silver trinket box
• Maker: Henry Matthews
• Origin: Birmingham, England
• Date: 1903
• Period: Edwardian
• Material: Sterling silver
• Hallmarks: Partially rubbed hallmarks, consistent with Birmingham 1903
• Decoration: Reynolds Angels design in high relief with beaded border
• Interior: Gilt
• Dimensions: Approx. 13 cm long x 7.5 cm wide
• Weight: Approx. 110.5 grams

Condition:

Good antique condition with two small holes on the lid and a significant dent on the side. The hinge remains strong and the lid closes securely. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Henry Matthews was an established Birmingham silversmith active from the late 19th into the early 20th century. Working from Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the firm produced a wide range of quality silver goods, with a particular emphasis on small decorative and personal items such as boxes, dressing table accessories, card cases and other finely made objects.

The Reynolds Angels motif is based on Sir Joshua Reynolds’ painting A Child’s Portrait in Different Views: ‘Angel’s Heads’, created in 1786–87. The composition became a popular decorative subject during the Victorian and Edwardian periods and was frequently adapted for silver vanity accessories, boxes and small personal items.

Dating to 1903, this trinket box combines a recognised Birmingham maker, an iconic period design and a practical scale. Despite its age-related flaws, it remains an appealing example of Edwardian sterling silver craftsmanship with strong visual character and collector interest.

Please review the photographs carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.