A fine Georgian mahogany inlaid netting box with an inlaid flower on the lid. The box is lined with the original silk lining and has a fitted ratchet and some metal tools inside. The drawer below is also lined with silk and is lead weighted.
The box measures 21cm w x 12.5cm d x 8.5cm h
Netting was popular from the mid 1700s. It required special tools similar to crochet hooks, and involved creating a series of loops which could be enlarged, reduced and alternated to create patterns. Ladies netted purses, lace edgings and cloaks.
Even Jane Austen mentioned this passtime in Northanger Abbey "Miss Andrews is netting herself the sweetest cloak you can concieve".