Tramp Art Sewing Box
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Decorative Boxes
Silk, Paper
Vintage 1930s American Folk Art Side Tables
Wood
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2010s American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
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Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Vases
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Early 20th Century American Folk Art Desks
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Antique 19th Century American Folk Art Cupboards
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Antique Early 1900s French Louis XV Center Tables
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Vintage 1910s French Art Nouveau Card Tables and Tea Tables
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Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Chairs
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Antique Late 19th Century Folk Art Decorative Boxes
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Antique 19th Century American Boxes
Wood, Glass, Fabric
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Boxes
Wood, Velvet
20th Century Decorative Boxes
Wood
Antique 19th Century American Decorative Objects
Wood
Antique 19th Century American Boxes
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Antique Late 19th Century German Gothic Revival Decorative Boxes
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Early 20th Century American Decorative Boxes
Softwood
Antique 19th Century European Gothic Revival Jewelry Boxes
Brass, Bronze
Vintage 1910s American Decorative Boxes
Wood
Early 20th Century American Folk Art Boxes
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Antique 1890s American Decorative Boxes
Antique 19th Century Folk Art Sculptures
Finding the Right boxes for You
From mere trinkets to useful receptacles that serve a distinct purpose, antique boxes as decorative objects have come in many forms over the years. No matter what they’re made of or where they end up in your home, decorative boxes add both style and storage to your space.
The decorative box that is likely most common is the jewelry box. These boxes were originally known as jewel caskets and were in common use in Ancient Egypt, as most Egyptians wore some sort of jewelry. A portable jewelry box, in its original intended use, was integral to keeping your jewelry safe and secure. This accessory has transformed in size, shape and appearance over the years. Initially it was common for a jewelry box to bear intricate ornamentation. Whether they’re mid-century modern works of marble and brass or feature playful Art Deco–style geometric decor, jewelry boxes boast real staying power.
Snuff boxes began to soar in popularity during the 17th century (and were commonplace in European homes by the mid-19th century). The boxes, some hand-painted with landscape scenes, some made from gold, porcelain or stone, contained a small amount of tobacco, which users would sniff, or “snuff,” throughout the day. Some particularly ornamental snuff boxes featured enameled designs or were set with precious gems and were given as gifts or party favors, particularly at the coronation of royalty or other lavish events.
Whether you’re organizing important mail in the foyer or tucking away medications in your bathroom, antique boxes — be they metal tea caddies, sterling-silver decorative boxes or Victorian cigar boxes made of oak (even if you don’t smoke) — are a sophisticated solution to help keep the surfaces in your home clutter-free. And no matter if you’re seeking a decorative box to beautify a desktop or bestow upon a loved one, you are sure to find something you love in the collection of antique and vintage boxes on 1stDibs.
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