Writing boxes a rare find in the world of antiques

With children heading back to school, some for the first time in six months, for many it will be time to brush up on their handwriting skills.

Having proper materials encourages me to write more legibly: a nice pen, good thick paper, and how about this most inspiring of collectables, the writing box.

Portable boxes for writing materials have existed for many centuries and in many cultures, becoming popular in Britain in the 18th century.

The box was a personal possession and travelled with its owner on commercial trips, on holiday, into libraries, and at home. Army officers were given their own boxes, using them both for army business and for writing home.

Quality, design and decoration played an important part in the choice of box, as requiring one conveyed intelligence, commerce, and worldliness.

Writing boxes are quite rare to find these days, certainly as good examples as this. Dated 1888, it is in pristine condition, including the original brass carry handle.

Original features such as these inkwells can double the value of the box.

This splendid example is on sale in the centre for £200.

Most Georgian and Victorian boxes were made in rosewood, olive wood and walnut, materials which elevate these everyday workhorses with a lovely warmth and depth.

As the boxes were made to be used and carried around, many became battered after years of use and travelling.

However, as with most workaday items, decoration slowly crept in.

Brass edging and corner pieces, intricate parquetry and mother of pearl inlays and even painted porcelain plaques featuring rustic scenes became sought after.

The development of the fountain pen and the typewriter rendered writing boxes obsolete.

Sadly, many were simply smashed or thrown out, their locks broken, leaves ripped out, inkwells smashed or lost and their secret compartments destroyed.

The more decorated the box, the higher its value, along with condition, of course.

It is hard to find examples much under £100, and you can pay thousands for exquisitely decorated English or French examples containing intricate, even secret, compartments and document holders.