A 19th century artist's box with a trade label to the sliding lid  saying "Tinting Mechanical or Architectural Working Drawings' and the Victorian stamp underneath.There are also directions for use and suggestions on how to set up your paper before painting!
This box was made by Reeves & Co around 1870 and the label states that it was a "prize Colour Box' with directions and suggestions on use.
These boxes were given as prizes.  These awards were provided for in the British Education Reform Acts of 1870 - which was a historical advancement in educational reform. These were awarded to students for "good attendance & diligence" Awards were also given to educators.
 
Inside are three watercolour cakes, chalks, a ceramic mixing pallete with ribbons to the side to lift it out and a paint brush. Also inside is a label with Reeves & Sons 113 Cheapside London.
On the sliding lid The box even comes with some newspaper cuttings about the box and some paper where previous owners have tried out the paint.
 
It measures 17.5cm l x 10cm w x 2cm h.