Antique French Gilt Metal Enamel Portrait Jewellery Casket - Circa 1890 - 3384

Summary

A late 19th century French gilt metal jewellery casket with coloured enamel decoration and a glazed portrait miniature. The compact case retains its red velvet interior and decorative key, with a working lock.

Description

The oval body is decorated with a textured basket weave pattern around the sides. Bands of red, green, orange and pale blue enamel frame the hinged lid, surrounding a finely worked gilt central field and an oval portrait beneath glass.

The hand painted miniature depicts a young woman in late eighteenth century style dress, wearing a large white hat tied with a pink ribbon. It is signed Lautiere on the back, visible when the red velvet panel is removed. A corresponding but less distinct signature appears towards the right side of the portrait itself. A gilt frame holds the miniature beneath its glass cover.

Deep red velvet lines the interior and appears original to the casket. The original decorative key is present, and the lock operates correctly.

Dating to circa 1890, the casket combines coloured enamel and gilt metalwork with an eighteenth century revival portrait, characteristic of French decorative luxury wares of the Belle Époque.

Condition

Very good antique condition for the period. The enamel decoration is in good order, with light age related rubbing and patination to the gilt metal. Fine dust and age related deposits are visible around the edges of the portrait beneath the glass.

The original red velvet interior has minor wear consistent with age. The hinge and lock operate correctly, and the original key is included.

Approximate Measurements

• Width: 9cm [3.54in]
• Depth: 7.5cm [2.95in]
• Height: 3cm [1.18in]
• Item weight: 154g [5.43oz]

Stock Code: 3384 OC26-3

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