RARE AND IMPORTANT JEWELRY BOX CRAFTED BY MALCOLM X (MALCOLM LITTLE),(American, 1925-65). Made during his incarceration at Charlestown State Prison, Charlestown, MA. Accompanied by typed letter of authenticity, signed and dated January 28, 2000, to Little family member "John", from Malcolm's older sister, known to family as "Aunt Hilda"; and historically-significant five-and-one-half page, single-spaced, typed letter, dated December 22, 1999, also by "Aunt Hilda".
Box constructed of mahogany inlaid with geometrically-arranged maple panels, has top and base with canted sides; interior of hinged cover fitted with rectangular mirror within cobalt blue velvet border; double-compartmented, shallow lift-out tray above velvet lined lower-well with musical mechanism playing popular lullaby (working); front fitted with brass keyhole escutcheon (no key); blue felt-lined bottom surface.
Richly detailed, informative letter discusses history of box, various Little family relationships and particulars of Malcolm X's incarceration, and includes much hitherto publicly unknown material. First page, second paragraph begins: "...I've always hesitated to give out any information concerning anything pertaining to Malcolm simply because for years I have been listening to distorted and fantastic stories about his life based on a small portion of fact..." - Box: 6 in. x 12 3/4 in. x 9 3/4 in. Estimate $40,000-60,000
PROVENANCE: By Little family descent to current owner, a family member
