A rectangular box made of polychrome lithographed sheet metal with a trompe-l'œil decoration imitating a row of antique bound books, an emblematic product of the English firm Huntley's (Huntley & Palmers), the famous biscuit manufacturer of Reading & London. Each side is treated as a richly ornamented book spine, with literary titles, floral motifs, gilt fillets, and typography inspired by Victorian and Edwardian bindings. The ends feature bookends in faux woodgrain, adorned with a central medallion, reinforcing the illusion of a library set. The hinged lid opens from the top to reveal a ribbed, unfinished sheet metal interior. A registered design, bearing the inscription "REGD No," characteristic of Huntley & Palmers productions from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
✦ Origin: England - Huntley's (Reading & London) ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900 ✦ Dimensions: 22 x 10 x 10 cm ✦ Material: Lithographed sheet metal ✦ Condition: Significant wear consistent with age, rubbing, oxidation and pitting, losses and chips in the lithograph, patinated interior with traces of previous contents, hinges functional
Vintage Huntley's advertising tin with a particularly well-executed trompe-l'œil design, ideal for a collection of English biscuit tins, a cabinet of curiosities or a characterful library decoration.
