Early 20th Century French Advertising Soap Boxes – Savon du Mikado & Savorgnan de Brazza This attractive pair of original French advertising soap boxes embodies the refined graphic style and exotic inspiration typical of early 20th century commercial design. Produced for luxury soaps, these boxes were intended to elevate everyday objects into desirable decorative items, and they remain highly collectible today. The first box, “Savon du Mikado” by Félix Eydoux of Marseille, features a richly colored lithographed lid depicting a Japanese-inspired female portrait framed by floral motifs and heraldic birds. The second box, “Savorgnan de Brazza – L’Explorateur, Gouverneur du Congo,” presents a striking colonial-era illustration with a central portrait and blue-toned landscape scenes, reflecting the period’s fascination with exploration and distant lands. Both boxes are made of cardboard with printed and lacquered decoration. Manufactured in France during the early 1900s, these items are authentic period advertising pieces. Original printed marks and brand names are clearly visible, confirming their originality. Such boxes are sought after by collectors of antique advertising, soap memorabilia, and decorative arts, and also make excellent display pieces. Dimensions (each box): approximately 4 cm high x 18 cm long x 9 cm deep (about 1.6 in x 7.1 in x 3.5 in). Condition: visible wear consistent with age, including surface wear, edge rubbing, and interior damage, as shown in the photographs. Despite this, both boxes retain strong visual appeal and historical charm.