Brass bound ‘figured’ Walnut Card/Games Box by George Betjemann

Brass bound finely figured Walnut games box containing four sets of Bezique cards, scorecards and counters, within a sectioned interior. Made by the famed boxmaker to Queen Victoria, George Betjemann with typical brass straps and a Pietra Dura circular disc to the lid.

Date: c.1875

Dimensions: Height: 6.5cm.  Width: 27cm.  Depth: 17.2cm.

George Betjemann & Sons – In 1812 and at the age of 14, George Betjemann started apprenticing as a cabinet maker with his uncle, Gilbert Slater at his premises on Carthusian Street, London. In 1834, George then joined his father-in-law, William Merrick’s cabinet making business on Red Lion Street, Clerkenwell, London. George brought his sons, George William Betjemann (his eldest) and John Betjemann (grandfather of poet, Sir John Betjeman), to apprentice with him from 1848. He began his own business at 6 Upper Ashby Street, Clerkenwell, London, and with his two sons having completed their apprenticeships in 1855, expanded to 7 Upper Ashby Street shortly after.

In 1859, George moved into 36 Pentonville Road, London (their new family home and business residence) where he continued his business, now called George Betjemann & Sons, alongside his two sons. George William never married but instead was ‘married’ to his work, being a true artist and perfectionist. Their work was on display at the International Exhibition of 1862, and the International Exposition of 1867 in Paris.

By 1871, they had expanded their residence to incorporate 38 Pentonville Road and were employing 119 people. Records show that by 1875 a further incorporation of 40 Pentonville Road was undertaken and became George Betjemann & Sons.