There is a range of antique paper mache boxes for sale on 1stDibs. Frequently made of
paper,
wood and
mother-of-pearl, all antique paper mache boxes available were constructed with great care. There are all kinds of antique paper mache boxes available, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. Antique paper mache boxes bearing
Victorian or
Folk Art hallmarks are very popular at 1stDibs. There have been many well-made antique paper mache boxes over the years, but those made by
Henry Clay are often thought to be among the most beautiful.
Antique paper mache boxes can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $869, while the lowest priced sells for $65 and the highest can go for as much as $11,334.
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.