Money box - Gilt brass - Small box

Table-top money-box in frisage marquetry
Napoleon III era / Late 19th century (Neo-Regency style)

Accessory: Sold with its wrought-iron key.

Lot description:
Elegant and rare small masterwork box acting as a desk money-box or gaming-token box, made with veneer of precious woods featuring frisage marquetry in four leaves (often called “butterfly wings”). The slightly domed lid is centered by a delicate brass cartouche finely chiselled in a diamond floral form.
The interior reveals high-quality craftsmanship, with a dark wood lining and a neatly cut monetary slot in the upper trim of the lid.

The major interest of this piece lies in its polished brass fittings and its original locking system: a late 19th-century security lock, stamped with the prestigious official inscription "BREVETÉ S.G.D.G." (Sans Garantie Du Gouvernement, 1844 law), a sign of innovation and technical quality for the era.

Technical sheet:
Style reference: Haute Époque / Regency-inspired.
Era: Second half of the 19th century (circa 1860–1880).
Materials: Woods of precious timber (figured walnut or burl), plaques, hinges and cartouches in polished brass.
Mechanism: Mechanical security lock patented S.G.D.G., in perfect working order.
Dimensions: Small table-top format (masterpiece box / fine cabinet-work).
Several signs of wear.