One of the more intriguing furniture lots on offer is a stinkwood brass bound despatch box (Lot no. 1242), with its origins firmly rooted in South African history.

The following account was provided by the current owner: -

This despatch box was presented to Commandant Cloete by Major General Dundas as a reward for services rendered to the British government circa 1799. Cloete, who was commandant of the Stellenbosch commando, helped put down the rebellions in Swellendam and Graff-Reinet in August 1799.  The box echoes the era in which it was made, this being evidenced by the rough engraving commissioned in the field and clearly still visible today on the oval plaque centrally positioned on the lid of the box.  

The despatch box, with an auction estimate ranging between R30 000 – R40 000, is one of some one hundred lots of furniture being auctioned.