Possible John Needles

Baltimore, Maryland

Circa 1815

Mahogany with poplar secondary

These knife boxes are the epitome of Classical style in Baltimore.  Attributed to the shop of John Needles, these knife boxes originally had silver escutcheons that were made by a local Baltimore silversmith.  It is highly unusual that these boxes survive with their original interior.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Can you imagine how much silver these knife boxes held?  Baltimore at the end of the first quarter of the 19th century was such a happening place.  A town with great wealth always appreciated great silver and these knife boxes were the perfect way to show that off!