Napoleon III Box. Marquetry. France, 19th century. A rectangular wooden box with a flat lid supported by circular legs. It features a keyed front opening and a hinged top. Inside, there is a flat horizontal compartment with edges embellished with two lines of light marquetry (matching the underside of the lid and the inside of the hinged front), and three drawers beneath it, also embellished with light details. These types of pieces were used to hold various items (writing materials, jewelry, documents, etc.) either during travel or for use on a table. The exterior decoration, centered on the front and top, consists of delicate compositions with plant motifs and a strong classical influence, crafted from woods of different tones: shields, flowers, scrolls, cartouches, leaves, etc. The sides of the box are embellished only with lines of lighter-toned wood. In general, the decorative elements, arranged harmoniously and symmetrically in various light tones and colors (rosewood, fruit tones, etc.), are designed to stand out against the dark rosewood. These types of boxes or chests were very common throughout the 19th century in Europe. During the reign of Napoleon III (emperor from 1852 to 1870), they were often decorated with both Boulle-style marquetry and wood carving, with notable examples from firms such as Maison Berthet & Peret (a work now held in private collections).
· Size: 58,5x38,5x22 cms
ANTIQUES
FURNITURE
Ref.: ZF0895