SALE GORGEOUS Large Enamel French Box in Shape of a Mandolin

Antiques : French Boxes

 

This piece is pretty special. It is a unique French box covered in a glassed enamel with a couple detailed together under the strings of the Mandolin. The bottom part opens up revealing the inside of the box which is also enamel. The bottom is enamel over copper. There is a flea bite chip off the enamel on the inside, about 1/8", and part of it goes up under the metal edging. I was unable to capture it in a picture but it reveals this is glassed enamel over copper. The enamel on top is close to pristine with the exception of one thin hair width scratch above the gents hat which measures 1/2". All quite minor. I was able to capture it in the pictures after many takes. The bottom part is a wonderful contrast with cobalt enamel and with a gold color enamel painted design.

Quite an extraordinary piece. 8 1/2" long and 2" high on the box. The box part works well with a solid hold in the clasp. Absolutely stunning. All the strings are on the mandolin. The couple have foiled enamel making up their garments. Lovely scenery in the back ground. Looks VERY French but it is not marked. Probably made between 1880 and 1910.

Item ID: 17T270