Object of the Week - Leather Hat Box, 19th Century

This hat box is stamped with the maker's name 'Wiseman, Saddler, Auckland'. The saddlery firm was founded in 1861 by James and Alexander Wiseman.

There is an owner inscription on the brass lock 'Mr John Bell, V.S., Clonmel'. Bell was a veterinary surgeon who lived at Abbey Street, Clonmel.