Maison Alphonse GIROUX - Paris, dated 1832 - Devotional frame - Wood and mother-of-pearl magnifying glass - 1800-1850

Devotional frame in burl wood and mother-of-pearl - Maison Alphonse GIROUX - Paris, dated 1832

Description:
A rare and precious devotional frame or salon medallion from the Restoration / July Monarchy period, made by the prestigious Maison Alphonse Giroux in Paris.
The rectangular frame features a superb burl wood façade (probably thuya or amboyna burl) with a warm golden patina, adorned with inlaid black lines and topped with a finely rendered Christian cross.
At the center is a large, convex circular medallion in natural mother-of-pearl with iridescent reflections, framed by a delicate collar of bronze (or brass) chased with leafy motifs. The original suspension ring in gadrooned bronze is perfectly preserved.
The reverse of the object is exceptional and provides an absolute guarantee of authenticity:
• It retains its original paper label from the firm, bearing the historic address: “Alph. Giroux, Rue du Coq St Honoré N° 7 à Paris” (an address occupied until 1840).
• The label is flanked by its two printed guarantee seals/marks.
• A period handwritten inscription in ink confirms a precise date: March 14, 1832.
About Maison Alphonse Giroux:
Founded in 1799, this renowned luxury establishment, nicknamed “the merchant to princes,” was the appointed supplier to the royal family and French aristocracy for objets de tabletterie, fine small-scale cabinetmaking, and curiosities. It is also famous for having made the very first daguerreotypes in 1839.

Technical specifications

• Period: Restoration / July Monarchy (precisely dated 1832)
• Origin: France (Paris, Maison Alphonse Giroux)
• Materials: Burl wood veneer, mother-of-pearl, bronze / brass, period cardboard backing.
• Condition: Very good overall condition for its age. Entirely “as found,” unrestored and unmodified. Minor wear from normal use to the wood and paper on the reverse, enhancing its authenticity. (Please look closely at the photos, which form an integral part of the description).