A mid 19th century English japanned papier‑mâché pen box, in a long rectangular form, black ground and dense gilt and coloured “Oriental” figures, characteristic of Victorian English japanned papier‑mâché work from Birmingham and Wolverhampton workshops from around 1860.​ The body was built up from laminated paper or card (papier‑mâché) pressed into a mould, then hardened with oil and heat to form a rigid, light carcass that could be planed and sanded like wood.​ Multiple coats of black “japan” varnish were stove‑dried, then the surface was hand‑painted with gold and coloured pigments to create the figural scene seen here, before receiving a final clear varnish and polish to give the glossy lacquer‑like finish.​
 
The box measures 19.7 x 5.5cm (7.75" x 2.16").
 
In good functional condition, a beautiful item.