Tea caddy/ box (2) - Brass, Wood - tea boxes

Lot of 2 Napoléon III tea boxes – Rosewood and Mottled (Bird's-eye) – 19th century

Set of two French tea boxes dating from the Napoléon III period, around 1860–1880. These cases illustrate the decorative refinement of the Second Empire through the use of precious woods, marquetry, brass, and mother-of-pearl. Tea boxes of this era were intended for storing loose tea. The inner metal linings are frequently missing or incomplete on this type of antique object.

1. Swelled tea box in rosewood

Wood: rosewood
Decoration: geometric chevron and lozenge marquetry
Shape: domed, typical of the Napoléon III style
Ornamentation: brass beading along the curve
Lock: present, key absent
Interior: lining and internal compartments missing

Dimensions:
Length: 22.7 cm
Width: 11.8 cm
Height: 13.7 cm

Condition: very nice external presentation, marquetry well preserved, old homogeneous patina. Interior empty, absence of lining and compartments

2. Rectangular box in burr or mottled wood with mother-of-pearl cartouche

Wood: burr or mottled wood, probably walnut or mahogany
Decoration: central cartouche adorned with mother-of-pearl, surround marquetry
Shape: rectangular
Ornamentation: brass fillets
Gaps: two brass fillets missing and lock top missing (see photos)
Interior: compartmented with old metal lining, visible wear

Dimensions:
Length: 23.3 cm
Width: 11.4 cm
Height: 10.5 cm

Condition: sound structure, decoration still legible, wear and decorative losses visible, old patina not restored.

Era:
19th century – France – Napoléon III period (Second Empire)

Materials:
Wood, veneer, brass, mother-of-pearl, metal

Overall condition:
Antique items showing signs of time, wear and losses clearly visible. Photographs are an integral part of the description.

Shipping:
Careful and secure shipping.