Martin Lacquer Wig Box - Japanese Lacquer Design - Louis XV Style

A beautiful wig box made of black lacquered wood with gold leaf (Martin varnish), decorated with "Chinese-style" motifs in the Japanese tradition (palace scenes rendered in relief). Domed case with a red lacquered interior on the lid. Chiseled and gilded bronze trim. Louis XV style, 19th century.

First popularized in the early 18th century, this elegant box was used to store wigs that had been styled, combed, deloused, washed, and powdered—usually laid flat—and its size evolved with changing fashions. The wig box could be part of a vanity set and thus be accompanied by several small, matching boxes that held pins, powder, jewelry, solid perfumes, beauty spots, and more. Wig boxes were reserved for 18th-century high society. The majority of the people—about 80% of the population—did not wear wigs, which were reserved for the nobility and the upper middle class, and sometimes for the clergy.

A beautiful decorative object that reflects the refinement of the 18th century, perfect for displaying on a living room table, dresser, or other piece of furniture.

In very good condition; no repaired breaks; slight wear from rubbing on the gold of the lid and the lacquer.

Length: 29 cm
Width: 21.3 cm
Height: 10 cm