E F Caldwell Humidor
Vintage 1910s American Gothic Decorative Boxes
Bronze, Enamel
Antique 19th Century American Books
Bronze, Steel
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Antique 15th Century and Earlier Malaysian Malayer Arms, Armor and Weapons
Mahogany
20th Century English Post-Modern Arms, Armor and Weapons
Bronze
Vintage 1960s American Chinoiserie Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Bronze, Silver Leaf
Antique 19th Century English Renaissance Revival Panelling
Wood, Pine
Antique 1890s German Dinner Plates
Porcelain
Antique 19th Century French Napoleon III Desks and Writing Tables
Ormolu
Vintage 1980s English Neoclassical Porcelain
Porcelain
Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XIV Jewelry Boxes
Brass, Bronze
Antique Early 19th Century French Empire Historical Memorabilia
Crystal, Silver
Antique Mid-19th Century French Glass
Brass, Gold Plate
Antique 1890s American Books
Paper
Antique 1810s French Empire Decorative Boxes
Bronze
Antique Late 19th Century Chinese Qing Vases
Porcelain
Antique 19th Century American Beds and Bed Frames
Silk, Mahogany, Oak, Walnut
Antique 19th Century French Neoclassical Game Tables
Bronze
Antique Late 19th Century French Napoleon III Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Brass
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Early 20th Century American Aesthetic Movement Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Aluminum, Bronze
Early 20th Century American Renaissance Revival Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Metal
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.