Container (Borax Box)

This type of small contained is illustrated in Randle Holme, The Academy of Armory (London, 1701) as a "Borax box for soldering." It was used by the Dominys to hold soldering flux. The serrated upper edge of its spout can be seen. This was apparently flicked with the finger or a tool in order to set up enough vibration to dislodge the contents. Nathaniel Dominy IV had the metalworking skills needed to produce this container. Clearly the engraved initials and date indicate that he owned it in 1782, but whether he made or acquired it cannot be determined.

Container (borax box), Nathaniel Dominy IV (maker or purchaser), 1782. Brass. 3.1" (L), 1.06" (H), 1.2" (W). Mark: "ND / AD 1782" (AD conjoined), engraved in script on top of lid. Museum purchase with funds provided by Henry Belin du Pont, 1957.0026.391