Harmony Kingdom Rather Large Friends Treasure Jest Box

Collectibles : Decorative Arts : Harmony Kingdom : Figurine Box

 

The UK based Harmony Kingdom began making the Treasure Jest boxes in the early 1990's. They have quickly become highly collectible. The boxes are intricate carvings by master artists made of crushed marble and resin to resemble antique ivory. The Treasure Jests are a humorous line often with secret images or markings that have meaning to artist's life. "Rather Large Friends " is a figurine box of five cats intertwined with two mice peeking out between their legs. It is a larger version of the Treasure Jest box produced in 1994 entitled Purrfect Friends. Rather Large Friends was carved by master carver Peter Calvesbert in 1995 for release on 2/1/96. Only 9350 boxes were issued, then the piece was retired on 10/1/1998. The dimensions of the piece are 4.13 x 4.21 x 3.74 inches. The model number is TJRLCA. The inside of the box has no carvings. The Harmony Kingdom sites states that there are several hallmarks on this piece but they are not in their usual place along the side or edge of the piece. They may be on the underside, but this is covered with felt. I suspect the felt was added by a previous owner as I have not come across a piece with felt before. However, it may be original since this is a large box. Rather Large Friends is referenced in the 9th edition Price Guide to Contemporary Collectibles and Limited editions by Mary L. Sieber. This box comes with it's original round presentation box and an insert with the artist bio. Excellent condition. If you like it, buy it fast because I love it and may decide to keep it for myself!

Item ID: 1348