Cardboard Box Covered In Embossed Leather, Circa 1880.

This small, Japanese-style desk file is bound in embossed leather. Its rich decoration is divided into hexagonal compartments, patinated in brown or gold, adorned with Japanese motifs that foreshadow Art Nouveau. In the second half of the 19th century, artists drew inspiration from the forms and decorations of objects from Japan, displayed at world's fairs. The poetic representation of nature on Japanese art objects influenced artists, who absorbed it and used flora and fauna to embellish their work. Inside these compartments, one can distinguish various motifs, such as insects, dogs, fish, shells, birds, plants, flowers, etc. The interior is divided into three sections lined with brown moiré fabric. In excellent condition, there are nevertheless a few small losses to the trim along the edges of the case. Attributed to the Susse Frères firm in Paris. We have examined a similar case bearing the Susse Frères signature on the lock. Circa 1880. Height 20 cm, depth 15 cm, length 28.5 cm.