Cut Crystal Box Dore
Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
Crystal, Bronze
Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
Bronze
Antique 1890s French Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
Crystal, Bronze
Antique Mid-19th Century French Empire Candelabras
Crystal, Marble, Bronze
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Vintage 1920s French Regency Decorative Boxes
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Antique Mid-19th Century French Napoleon III Jewelry Boxes
Antique 19th Century French Barware
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Vintage 1980s French Artisan Clip-on Earrings
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Antique 19th Century French Boxes
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Antique Early 1900s French Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
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Vintage 1940s French Belle Époque Decorative Boxes
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Antique 1860s French Napoleon III Decorative Boxes
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20th Century French Boxes
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Vintage 1920s French Neoclassical Decorative Boxes
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Antique Early 1900s French Decorative Boxes
Antique 1860s French Napoleon III Decorative Boxes
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Antique Early 1900s Czech Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
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Vintage 1930s French Belle Époque Decorative Boxes
Crystal, Bronze
20th Century French Modern Jewelry Boxes
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Antique 1880s French Louis XVI Decorative Boxes
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Antique Early 1900s French Jewelry Boxes
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Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Jewelry Boxes
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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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