Some boxes are made to hold treasures. Others become treasures themselves.
POMP began its life an estimated 85 years ago, likely around 1940, as a decorative wooden keepsake box from Kashmir, India. Adorned with intricate floral patterns, colourful birds, rich burgundy tones, and gold-coloured detailing, this charming survivor reflects the elaborate decorative traditions of Kashmiri artisans.
For decades, its purpose was simply to hold something precious.
Well, that's changed!
I've given this distinguished old box a second life, introducing a mechanical locking system, a few carefully placed embellishments, and just enough mischief to make things interesting. The result is POMP, a one-of-a-kind mechanical puzzle box requiring just six moves to open.
Five moves? Surely that can't be difficult!
Perhaps not. But there's a rather important difference between knowing how many moves are required and knowing which moves to make.
POMP isn't designed to torment you for days. It's intended to reward observation, curiosity, and that delightful moment when mystery gives way to understanding.
With its vintage character, colourful history, and newly acquired secrets, POMP represents a marriage of two very different crafts, separated by generations and half a world.
One old box. One new mystery. One of a kind.
And perhaps just a little more Pomp than Circumstance!
Creating Mystery by Design
Kel Snake Fine Puzzles