Bidspirit auction | A CONTINENTAL EBONIZED AND BOULLE-MARQUETRY

A CONTINENTAL EBONIZED AND BOULLE-MARQUETRY JEWELRY CASKET, LATE 19TH CENTURY - A finely executed rectangular jewelry casket of ebonized wood, richly decorated in the Boulle taste with intricate brass and tortoiseshell-style marquetry. The lid is centered with an elaborate cartouche of scrolling foliate ornament inlaid in gilt brass against a deep red ground, surrounded by a symmetrical border of arabesques and stylized floral motifs. The top is framed by a cast gilt-metal mount of repeating floral and bead motifs. The sides are similarly ornamented with restrained inlaid designs, the front centered by a shaped escutcheon plate fitted with a working lock and key. The casket is raised on four cast gilt-metal feet in the form of stylized paw supports, adding both elevation and visual weight to the composition. The mounts exhibit a warm gilt surface with areas of natural patination. The hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted interior lined in blue silk and velvet, with compartmentalized divisions for jewelry or small valuables. The underside is finished with a green felt panel within a wooden frame. The overall design reflects the revival of 17th century French Boulle work popular in the late 19th century, particularly during the Napoleon III period and continuing into the Belle Époque. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: 12 3/4 x 9 1/4 x 5 1/4 in., () Condition: Overall good condition with age-appropriate wear. The marquetry remains largely intact, with minor lifting and losses visible to the top surface, including a stable age crack across the lid. Some rubbing and wear to the ebonized finish. Gilt-metal mounts with light wear and oxidation. Interior lining worn and slightly faded, consistent with use.