Box - Pink Interior Padding - Wood, Bone - Heraldic Marquetry

Opens tomorrow
Starting bid
€ 1

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Constance Rousseau
Expert
Selected by Constance Rousseau

Master marquetry craftswoman with 4 years' expert experience. Trainee auctioneer at Sotheby's Paris.

Estimate  € 180 - € 220
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Description from the seller

It is a box in the Napoleon III style from the 19th century, and the first thing it conveys is that dark, elegant refinement so typical of the French taste of the era: woods stained to a deep black, surfaces polished like an antique piano, and marquetry that blends geometric precision with a romantic, ornamental air.

The structure is of dense, well-worked wood, probably rosewood or ebonized mahogany, with a finish that enhances the contrast between the dark background and the light details. On the lid stands a central motif of bone inlay marquetry, a luminous oval surrounded by a delicate floral pattern, almost like a cameo inlaid. The fine lines that frame the lid and the front—also in bone or vegetal ivory—bring that graphic touch so characteristic of the period: sober, yet full of decorative intention.

On the front, the ornate escutcheon surrounding the lock acts as a small moment of theatricality, a gesture typically Napoleonic III where functionality is dressed in luxury. The box preserves its original key, a very valuable detail for both collectors and historians, because it completes the integrity of the piece and confirms that it has not been excessively manipulated.

When opened, the pink padded interior appears, a period textile that adds an unexpected and charming contrast: the softness of the color and the fabric against the exterior’s austere elegance. That pink interior was common in jewelry, writing, or fine sewing boxes, designed to protect delicate objects and, at the same time, offer a small intimate display when the lid is opened.

In sum, it is a box that perfectly embodies the spirit of the French Second Empire: accessible luxury, exquisite craftsmanship, a taste for contrast, and a blend of romanticism and modernity that continues to be irresistible.

Certified shipping and good packaging.

Seller's Story

Vintage Shop SL is a prominent antique store that since 2010 has been committed to customer satisfaction and sustainability. This shop is not only a cultural treasure that preserves the history and heritage of our societies, but also strives to operate in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner. At Vintage Shop SL, we believe that customer service is essential to our success. Our highly trained team is dedicated to providing friendly, knowledgeable, and personalized service. We take pride in helping our customers find the perfect vintage pieces that fit their individual tastes and needs, ensuring their satisfaction and fostering lasting relationships. But that's not all. At Vintage Shop SL, we also care about the sustainability of the business and its impact on the natural environment. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting responsible business practices. On the one hand, we promote the circular economy and reuse by offering vintage items in excellent condition. By acquiring antiques at our shop, customers contribute to the conservation of natural resources by avoiding the production of new items and reducing the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and transportation.
Translated by Google Translate

It is a box in the Napoleon III style from the 19th century, and the first thing it conveys is that dark, elegant refinement so typical of the French taste of the era: woods stained to a deep black, surfaces polished like an antique piano, and marquetry that blends geometric precision with a romantic, ornamental air.

The structure is of dense, well-worked wood, probably rosewood or ebonized mahogany, with a finish that enhances the contrast between the dark background and the light details. On the lid stands a central motif of bone inlay marquetry, a luminous oval surrounded by a delicate floral pattern, almost like a cameo inlaid. The fine lines that frame the lid and the front—also in bone or vegetal ivory—bring that graphic touch so characteristic of the period: sober, yet full of decorative intention.

On the front, the ornate escutcheon surrounding the lock acts as a small moment of theatricality, a gesture typically Napoleonic III where functionality is dressed in luxury. The box preserves its original key, a very valuable detail for both collectors and historians, because it completes the integrity of the piece and confirms that it has not been excessively manipulated.

When opened, the pink padded interior appears, a period textile that adds an unexpected and charming contrast: the softness of the color and the fabric against the exterior’s austere elegance. That pink interior was common in jewelry, writing, or fine sewing boxes, designed to protect delicate objects and, at the same time, offer a small intimate display when the lid is opened.

In sum, it is a box that perfectly embodies the spirit of the French Second Empire: accessible luxury, exquisite craftsmanship, a taste for contrast, and a blend of romanticism and modernity that continues to be irresistible.

Certified shipping and good packaging.

Seller's Story

Vintage Shop SL is a prominent antique store that since 2010 has been committed to customer satisfaction and sustainability. This shop is not only a cultural treasure that preserves the history and heritage of our societies, but also strives to operate in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner. At Vintage Shop SL, we believe that customer service is essential to our success. Our highly trained team is dedicated to providing friendly, knowledgeable, and personalized service. We take pride in helping our customers find the perfect vintage pieces that fit their individual tastes and needs, ensuring their satisfaction and fostering lasting relationships. But that's not all. At Vintage Shop SL, we also care about the sustainability of the business and its impact on the natural environment. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting responsible business practices. On the one hand, we promote the circular economy and reuse by offering vintage items in excellent condition. By acquiring antiques at our shop, customers contribute to the conservation of natural resources by avoiding the production of new items and reducing the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and transportation.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Era
1400-1900
Style subtype
Napoleon III
Title additional information
Heraldic Marquetry
Country of origin
France
Material
Bone, Wood
Model
Pink Interior Padding
Style
Antique
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of ageing
Height
11 cm
Width
31 cm
Depth
11 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
SpainVerified
3124
Objects sold
90.31%
pro

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