69 – Box with red thread

Physical description:
Handmade wooden box covered with red wool.
Museum classification:
Spells and Charms
Size:
125 x 125 x 95 mm
Information:

Witches use boxes in many ways. An ailment can be trapped and passed on in a 'get-lost box'. Wishes can be captured in a 'wish-box'. A personal item placed in a box lined with broken mirrors can prevent the owner causing mischief. In many cases the boxes are tied round with red thread, or sealed with red sealing wax.
Original text by Cecil Williamson: 'Hand made wooden box bound with bright red wool. The hallmark of Jane Langdon of Nanpean. Famous 'get-lost' boxes.'

 

One of the objects that was on loan to the 'Wicked Spirits?' exhibition at Colchester Castle Museum in 2022.

Resource:
Object
Materials:
Wood, wool
Copyright ownership:
Copyright to The Museum of Witchcraft Ltd.

Witches use boxes in many ways. An ailment can be trapped and passed on in a 'get-lost box'. Wishes can be captured in a 'wish-box'. A personal item placed in a box lined with broken mirrors can prevent the owner causing mischief. In many cases the boxes are tied round with red thread, or sealed with red sealing wax.
Original text by Cecil Williamson: 'Hand made wooden box bound with bright red wool. The hallmark of Jane Langdon of Nanpean. Famous 'get-lost' boxes.'

 

One of the objects that was on loan to the 'Wicked Spirits?' exhibition at Colchester Castle Museum in 2022.