This is a lovely full size watercolour artists box by the famous James Newman.
Mr Newman started his business during the 18th century but moved to the soho square address in 1801. I have a collection of Newman boxes myself, as all of his items are of a superb and consistent quality.
Although this box doesn’t have a Newman box label, the mixing tray / palette (which is I’m sure the original one) is labelled correctly. This was quite normal at the time, as shop owners particularly bookshops were keen to show and sell these beautiful and high quality paint boxes.
Very conservatively, this may have been made during 1850s but could easily date a couple of decades earlier than this, so is a great early example.
Internally, there is the original ceramic palette (stamped Newman) and a larger ceramic one in the lower drawer (no name). The Newman palette shows some mild damage which is pictured. There is also the original paint tray with its Newman paints as follows -
Carmine
Chrome Yellow (No 1 ?)
Indian Red
Chrome Yellow
Yellow Ochre
Raw Umber
Cobalt Blue (I believe)
Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue
Light Red
Brown Madder (I believe)
Finally there is a glass water bowl and a contemporary paint brush.
Considering its age, in my opinion the condition is very good with a lovely patina. These are getting rarer and harder to find all the time. A special treasure!
Please see my other items for antique boxes, paints and artists materials.