Christofle And émile-auguste Reiber (1826-1893). Gilt And Patinated Bronze Jewelry Box

Émile-Auguste Reiber (1826–1893) for Christofle & Cie, circa 1875. A gilt, silvered, and patinated bronze box, and bronze with triple patinas, decorated with flowers, scrolls, and garlands. The interior is lined with light beige silk. The original key is functional. This elegant jewelry box testifies to the refinement and eclecticism of Émile-Auguste Reiber, in collaboration with Christofle. Head of the design and composition workshop of the renowned silversmith in the 1870s, Reiber was one of the principal introducers of Japonisme into French decorative arts, subtly blending Oriental influences with European tradition. This case also reflects the context of the major industrial exhibitions of the late 19th century, where Christofle presented innovative, critically acclaimed works purely in this style, featuring bronze work with beautiful reliefs and various patinas. E. Bergerat: Les Chefs-d'œuvre d'Art à l'Exposition universelle 1878, 1878, p. 35. Rare case by Émile-Auguste Reiber for Christofle, Paris, circa 1880. Silvered, gilt, and patinated metal case, decorated with lilies of the valley, roses, and arabesques. Key with a rose.