A porcelain box has been formed in the shape of a hand water pump. A ravishing golden tone and painted flower bouquet add luxury to a common item of yesteryear. A bucket of the same color sits under the faucet in order to “catch” the water. The clasp is of a flower. This dainty piece is a wonderful example of Limoges porcelain’s attention to detail and beauty.

A Rochard Limoges porcelain box, easily held in the palm of one’s hand, is the epitome of miniature beauty, of craftsmanship par excellence. Originally created to hold snuff, but also candies and other cherished objects, these miniature boxes became symbols of their times. They reflected, perhaps more than any other everyday object, the social mores, decorative skills, technological advances, and even politics of days gone by. Today, Limoges boxes are used to mark life’s special occasions or collected as prizes of lasting splendor.

H: 3 5/8 in (8.5 cm)