Antique Boxes of Splendour and Functionality
Purely decorative as they may appear now, antique boxes also hold the key to the social and cultural history of times gone by. Featured with intricate interior fittings, they served both men and women in the everyday tasks and pleasures of life. Whether it was a jewellery casket for keeping jewels safe, a stationery box for writing letters, or a pill box for storing medicine, these boxes were, and still are today, true treasures.
At Regent Antiques, we are delighted to be able to offer a wide range of antique boxes and caskets to meet any requirements, and we always stock a wide range of jewellery caskets.
Jewellery boxes were often as decorative – and sometimes as precious – as the jewellery that was stored within them. We have many examples of antique jewellery boxes that are works of art in their own right. For example, this magnificent antique French ormolu and carved cameo shell mounted jewellery casket, first sold by the renowned master cabinet maker Tahan of Paris, circa 1870 in date.
Of rectangular form, the hinged lid and sides are inset with beautiful mythological scenes and various classical figures. Complete with the original crown-headed key, the lock plate is engraved with the inscription “Tahan Paris, Boul des Italiens”.
The box retains its exquisite original deep-buttoned burgundy silk-lined interior and is raised on four decorative bun feet.
If pocket size boxes for travelling is what you are after, then look no further. This is an exquisite antique Italianate ormolu pill box with two micromosaic plaques, dating from the late 19th Century.
The box is hinged and round in shape. The top of the box is decorated with a charming centred and raised micromosaic of Pliny’s Doves – the popular image which appears frequently as the subject of micromosaics and features four doves drinking from a vessel of water.
Starting in the Renaissance, micromosaics were made in Italy, reaching the height of their popularity in the middle of the 19th century, when Rome was the centre of production. They were popular purchases by visitors on the Grand Tour, easily portable, and often taken home to set into an object there. Typically, the micromosaics were small panels used to inset into furniture or boxes and similar objects, or for jewellery.
The underside of our exquisite box is decorated with a beautiful micromosaic of a gull against a blue background. This is a lovely piece which apart from its functionality is also highly decorative.
Next, we would like to show you this wonderful antique silver dressing case which is a Victorian lady’s coromandel brass banded and brass inlaid travelling dressing case. It was manufactured by Leuchars of 38 Piccadilly in London and it is dated circa 1870.
Made of extremely rare coromandel wood which was only used for the highest quality items, the interior of this antique silver dressing case is fitted with silver mounted cut glass bottles and jars with wonderful carnelian ornamentation. The sterling silver topped bottles and jars are hallmarked for London 1872 from the silversmith Thomas Johnston.
This antique silver dressing case comes with a lift out tray comprising a silver gilt and steel manicure set and sewing accessories. Lifting out, the front section reveals a blue silk lined compartment. For further storage, there is also a blue velvet lined drawer at the bottom which is designed for the safe storage of items of jewellery. Enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that the back of the case can be removed in order to reveal a secret compartment inside the lid which was originally used to hide letters and documents. There is also a useful mirror included.
This antique silver dressing case is fitted with two special Leuchars Patent Bramah Locks, the main one of which is self-locking in order to counteract any forgetfulness on the part of the owner. This superb dressing case comes complete with the original keys.
Our final item for today’s review of antique boxes is this superb quality antique French ormolu and pietra dura stationery box, circa 1860 in date.
The box features a large inset polished pietra dura to the hinged lid with a further three to the front and three to the rear. It has a decorative ormolu drop handle on each side. The hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted interior with three compartments to store letters and cards. It is a lovely piece that will also make an unforgettable gift.
So, whatever style strikes your fancy, when you need antique boxes and caskets, Regent Antiques is well worth a visit – online or at our London showrooms. Please also bear us in mind if looking for other fine antiques and collectables. If you want to discuss these boxes or any of our other stock with our experts just call us on +44 20 8809 9605 or email: info@regentantiques.com. We ship to the UK mainland free of charge and for any other destination, just please request a price.