Toiletry Set In Blackened Wood, Polychrome Marquetry And Solid Silver Fittings.

Toiletry set from the Napoleon III period, in a black-stained, veneered, and finely marquetry pear wood box. The lid and front are decorated with cartouches adorned with engraved brass scrolls, partially filled with blue glass paste, ivory, and stylized mother-of-pearl flowers. The central decoration of the lid is completed by a cut and engraved brass plate with the initials of the former owner, testifying to a sponsor or refined personal use. The composition on the front and on the lid is completed with brass fillet. The edges of the box are protected by brass rods, reinforcing the architecture while protecting the box. The interior, lined with raspberry moiré velvet, features a removable tray filled with silver-plated utensils. On the back, six cut-crystal bottles, all in perfect condition, topped with their engraved solid silver lids. On the shelves below, there are various toiletry utensils. Some tools are missing from the removable tray, leaving some empty spaces. The lid houses an original mirror, hidden by a small removable table also serving as a writing support. The box has undergone a careful old restoration: - an old crack on the lid has been filled, - the structural gluing has been redone, - and the finish has been completely redone, respecting the materials and enhancing the cabinetmaking work. Original key preserved, functional lock. A piece combining luxury, functionality and personalization, typical of the art of travel under the Second Empire. Dimensions: Width: 33 cm Depth: 23 cm Height: 14 cm