Important Box Made Of Precious Wood Marquetry, From The Napoleonic III Period, Circa 1880

Important Louis XIII-style box in precious wood marquetry, Napoleon III period, circa 1880

A significant and elegant rectangular box in precious wood and exotic wood marquetry, made in France in the second half of the 19th century, circa 1880.

It is adorned with a rich geometric trompe-l'œil composition, forming cubes and three-dimensional forms in perspective. The design is created by assembling woods with contrasting tones and grain patterns, whose skillfully alternating orientation accentuates the effects of depth.

This striking composition is highlighted by several frames of herringbone marquetry, fillets, and moldings, while the side panels are embellished with remarkable twisted columns in blackened wood, giving the piece the appearance of a true miniature architectural structure.

The architecturally designed lid features elaborate decoration. It is adorned in the center with a large radiating star, composed of wood in various tones and surrounded by a series of geometric panels and herringbone friezes. The corners are accented with small turned decorative elements.

The interior, which has been preserved, is particularly interesting: it includes two removable, compartmentalized trays, providing ample storage space and attesting to the functional and meticulous design of this box.

The box has retained its lock as well as its key.

The piece as a whole features a beautiful patina and minor signs of wear consistent with its age.

Two small brass trim strips have come loose; they are included with the box and can be reattached. This defect is very minor and does not detract from the remarkable decorative quality of the piece.

With its large size, rich marquetry, twisted column design, and compartmentalized interior, this box is a particularly decorative piece that exemplifies the 19th-century historicist taste for Renaissance and Louis XIII styles.

France, circa 1880.
Napoleon III period.
Louis XIII / Neo-Renaissance style.

Height: 23 cm
Length: 42.5 cm
Width: 32 cm

In good overall condition for its age. The marquetry and interior are well preserved. A few minor marks and signs of normal wear. Two small brass strips need to be reattached; they are included with the box. Lock and key included.