French - Box - glass, cardboard





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Holds a bachelor's degree in history of art and architecture, with 12 years of experience in decorative arts.
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Description from the seller
Discover an Enchanting Fragment of 18th-Century Romance: A Rare French "Fixé sous Verre" Bonbonnière LidStep into the refined elegance of the late 18th century with this exquisite, authentic collector's piece. This round lid from a luxury confectionary box (bonbonnière) captures the delicate transition between the French Directoire and the Early Empire period. At its heart lies a beautifully preserved, hand-painted allegory of love and devotion. The reverse-glass painting technique (fixé sous verre) keeps the colors strikingly vibrant and glossy, exactly as it did over two centuries ago. The composition features a classical Cupid’s quiver bursting with arrows, intertwined with passionate burning hearts, and a flying dove carrying a floral wreath—a timeless symbol of fidelity and pure affection. Encased in its original pressed cardboard frame with an openwork decorative border, this item is a true testament to period craftsmanship. Objects of this fragility rarely survive the centuries. This piece offers a rare opportunity for discerning collectors to own a genuine touchstone of historical French romanticism and Neoclassical folk art.Origin: FrancePeriod: Late 18th Century / Early 19th Century (c. 1795–1810)Technique: "Fixé sous verre" / Verre églomisé (Reverse glass painting), hand-crafted. Condition Report: Beautiful antique condition consistent with its 220+ years of age. The painted glass remains clean and visually impactful. The original cardboard support and paper lining show charming structural wear and age patina on the back, confirming its authentic historical journey. No structural restorations. Collector's Note: A perfect display piece for lovers of Neoclassical art, early paper ephemera, and romantic curiosities. Condition: Good (Consistent with its age; there are visible signs of wear on the cardboard and back, but the painted glass is intact and clearly legible). Material: Glass, Cardboard, Paper. Technique: Painted under glass / Fixé sous verre (hand-painted). Period: Late 18th century / Early 19th century (circa 1795-1810). Color: Polychrome (light glass backgrounds, details in red, green, orange). Signature: Not present (period craftsmanship).
The lot will be appropriately packaged and shipped via approved couriers with online tracking. This lot cannot be shipped outside the European Union.
Seller's Story
Discover an Enchanting Fragment of 18th-Century Romance: A Rare French "Fixé sous Verre" Bonbonnière LidStep into the refined elegance of the late 18th century with this exquisite, authentic collector's piece. This round lid from a luxury confectionary box (bonbonnière) captures the delicate transition between the French Directoire and the Early Empire period. At its heart lies a beautifully preserved, hand-painted allegory of love and devotion. The reverse-glass painting technique (fixé sous verre) keeps the colors strikingly vibrant and glossy, exactly as it did over two centuries ago. The composition features a classical Cupid’s quiver bursting with arrows, intertwined with passionate burning hearts, and a flying dove carrying a floral wreath—a timeless symbol of fidelity and pure affection. Encased in its original pressed cardboard frame with an openwork decorative border, this item is a true testament to period craftsmanship. Objects of this fragility rarely survive the centuries. This piece offers a rare opportunity for discerning collectors to own a genuine touchstone of historical French romanticism and Neoclassical folk art.Origin: FrancePeriod: Late 18th Century / Early 19th Century (c. 1795–1810)Technique: "Fixé sous verre" / Verre églomisé (Reverse glass painting), hand-crafted. Condition Report: Beautiful antique condition consistent with its 220+ years of age. The painted glass remains clean and visually impactful. The original cardboard support and paper lining show charming structural wear and age patina on the back, confirming its authentic historical journey. No structural restorations. Collector's Note: A perfect display piece for lovers of Neoclassical art, early paper ephemera, and romantic curiosities. Condition: Good (Consistent with its age; there are visible signs of wear on the cardboard and back, but the painted glass is intact and clearly legible). Material: Glass, Cardboard, Paper. Technique: Painted under glass / Fixé sous verre (hand-painted). Period: Late 18th century / Early 19th century (circa 1795-1810). Color: Polychrome (light glass backgrounds, details in red, green, orange). Signature: Not present (period craftsmanship).
The lot will be appropriately packaged and shipped via approved couriers with online tracking. This lot cannot be shipped outside the European Union.
