Victorian Scottish Tartanware Needle Case “Caledonia”, c. 1860–1880
Victorian Scottish Tartanware Needle Case “Caledonia”, c. 1860–1880
Couldn't load pickup availability
2.25" H x 1.5" W x .5" D
Scottish, circa 1860–1880
A charming Victorian Scottish tartanware needle case dating to the mid to late 19th century, featuring a richly colored Caledonia tartan exterior and a silk-lined interior. These small sewing companions were popular souvenirs during the height of Scotland’s Victorian tourism boom, blending practicality with romantic Highland symbolism.
The hinged case opens to reveal its original felt needle pad, designed to securely hold sewing needles and pins. The interior is lined in purple silk, a detail often found in higher-quality tartanware pieces of the period. Compact and book-like in form, this piece would have been kept in a sewing basket, reticule, or on a lady’s dressing table.
Today, Victorian tartanware needle cases are sought after for their decorative appeal, historical context, and versatility. This example makes a wonderful addition to a tartanware collection, a sewing or textile display, or as a small accent piece styled atop a desk or shelf.
Condition: This piece shows age-related wear consistent with its Victorian origin. The lacquered tartan exterior displays surface wear, light scuffing, and small areas of finish loss, particularly along the edges and corners. The interior purple silk lining exhibits discoloration, staining, and wear from use. The original felt needle pad is present and shows age toning and surface wear. The hinge functions properly, and the case remains structurally sound, opening and closing as intended. Overall, the piece presents well and retains strong character and authenticity consistent with 19th-century tartanware.
Shipping & Returns
All antique and vintage items are shipped from our warehouse in Bluffdale, Utah. Each piece is carefully packed by hand using archival materials and custom crating when necessary.
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the size and weight of the item. Local pickup is available at the AMD Warehouse.
All sales of antique and vintage items are final due to their unique, one-of-a-kind nature. Illuminé candles and The Collector's Guide may be returned within 14 days of delivery if unopened and in original condition.
If your piece arrives damaged, please photograph the damage immediately (including packaging), contact us within 48 hours at austynmariedesign@gmail.com, and do not discard any packaging.
Important Info About Antique & Vintage
Every antique and vintage item we carry has lived a life before arriving in your home. These are not factory-made products. They are objects with history, character, and the marks of time.
Age-appropriate wear, patina, minor imperfections, and signs of previous use or repair are inherent to antique and vintage items and are not considered defects. These characteristics are part of what makes each piece unique and are often what give it its beauty and value.
We describe the condition of each piece as accurately as possible in the listing. If you have specific questions about a piece before purchasing, please reach out. We are always happy to provide additional photos or details.
Colors may appear slightly different on screen due to monitor settings and photography lighting. We do our best to represent each item accurately.
