Straw Marquetry Sewing Box, Maritime Scene, 18th Century, Decoration On All Sides, Without Lid

A rare straw marquetry sewing box, late 18th – early 19th century (circa 1800), rectangular in shape (30 × 20 × 7 cm), richly decorated on all its exterior faces with floral motifs and figurative panels, including a maritime scene on the front.
The box is currently closed by its upper lid, composed of five small, independent lids, opening onto a large central compartment and symmetrical side compartments incorporating semi-cylindrical recesses for small tools.
The interior, more understated but also crafted in straw marquetry with a geometric design, demonstrates meticulous and refined workmanship.
The reverse of the largest of the five lids is adorned with a delicate butterfly motif among flowers.
The box is missing its large upper lid, the rebate of which is visible. However, the preservation of the complete inner lid and the balance of its design give it a harmonious presentation, conveying the impression of a finished object.

The straw marquetry is very well preserved, despite some small, scattered losses. The two small side panels of the box have lost their floral decoration. The photos show all the exterior and interior surfaces and are an integral part of this description. They should therefore be examined carefully.

A fine example of luxury straw marquetry production around 1800, intended for refined use (sewing box or lady's casket). Straw marquetry had very varied uses around 1800, including in prisons, but complex figurative pieces of this quality clearly originate from luxury civilian workshops.