Name/Title
Patch boxEntry/Object ID
2026.9.1Description
Oval enameled metal box with copper alloy fittings (rims and hinge). The body of the box is ribbed and enameled in pale blue. The lid is decorated with a transfer print of a pedestal draped with greenery. Inscribed on the pedestal in script: "Life / is / Uncertain" A flame is on top of the pedestal and a white bird is flying downward at the right with another one on the ground in front of the pedestal. At the left is what appears to be a large pink heart with smoke rising from the heart or descending from the flame. The interior is white enamel. The lid has a mirror.Context
A patch box is a small, rectangular, round, or oval box with a mirror on the inside of the lid. It was used mostly as a receptacle for paper beauty patches to disguise blemishes of the skin, usually smallpox scars. In the 18th century these boxes became a fashion item and were made of silver, porcelain, cloisonne, or enamel and were extensively decorated.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1765 - circa 1785Dimensions
Height
7/8 inWidth
1-1/2 inDepth
1-3/8 inMaterials
Material
Enamel, Copper alloy, Metal, GlassMaterial Notes
Mirror appears to be mirrored glass.Interpretative Labels
Label
11.
Patch box, circa 1765-1785
Bilston, England
Enamel on copper
John S. Locke Collection, Gift of the Estate of Almira Locke McArthur
A patch box is a small, rectangular, round, or oval box with a mirror on the inside of the lid. It was used mostly as a receptacle for paper beauty patches to disguise blemishes of the skin, usually smallpox scars. In the 18th century these boxes became a fashion item and were made of silver, porcelain, cloisonne, or enamel and were extensively decorated.