Sewing box (4) - .800 silver, Tulipwood - Napoléon III 800 silver

Napoleon III-era sewing set in rosewood and solid silver (Boar’s Head hallmark)
• Object type: Sewing set / workbox
• Era / Period: Napoleon III (late 19th century, circa 1870)
• Country of origin: France
• Materials: Rosewood marquetry box; solid silver tools (800/1000 fineness) and steel; silver-plated thimble.
• Box dimensions: Length: 12.5 cm.
• Official hallmarks: French “Boar’s Head” guarantee hallmark (Paris office) on the silver elements, as well as a silversmith’s (maker’s) mark with a central symbol.

Elegant Napoleon III-era sewing set. The boat-shaped box features superb geometric butterfly-wing marquetry in rosewood, topped with a blank central brass cartouche. The interior retains its precious original deep royal-blue silk velvet lining, unfaded by sunlight.
The set comprises 4 pieces:
• A cylindrical needle case with channels and oblong medallions in solid silver (complete, in good condition).
• A matching embroidery awl, with a solid silver handle and steel point (in good condition).
• A metal thimble (probably added later; it sits slightly loose in its compartment).
• A matching pair of scissors in solid silver and steel.

Condition

• Box: Very well preserved for its age; the varnish retains its shine. There are very slight, natural hairline cracks from use in the wood; the interior velvet is clean and in good condition. The closure works.
• Tools: The silver has a natural, antique patina (not cleaned).
• Major flaw: The pair of scissors is incomplete and broken. The central rivet joining the two arms is missing, as is part of one of the steel blades. The lot is sold as is for collecting, display in a cabinet, or restoration by a silversmith.