British Biscuit Tins
Mid-20th Century Belgian Art Deco Decorative Boxes
Tin
Early 20th Century British Decorative Boxes
Metal
Early 20th Century British Decorative Boxes
Metal
People Also Browsed
Mid-20th Century Belgian Art Deco Decorative Boxes
Tin
Early 20th Century Belgian Art Nouveau Decorative Boxes
Metal
Early 20th Century Dutch Industrial Decorative Boxes
Tin
Mid-20th Century Taiwanese Folk Art Toys
Iron
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures
Resin, Plaster, Lacquer
Antique 19th Century British Regency Desk Sets
Brass
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Bottles
Glass, Blown Glass
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Vases
Pottery
Vintage 1980s Dutch Organic Modern Contemporary Art
Plexiglass, Plaster, Wood
Vintage 1930s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Plaster
1980s Abstract Abstract Paintings
Paper, Watercolor
Mid-20th Century French Jars
Glass
Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Side Chairs
Polyester
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures
Metal
Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Side Chairs
Polyester
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Gold Leaf
Recent Sales
Early 20th Century British Arts and Crafts Boxes
Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Decorative Boxes
Tin
Early 20th Century British British Colonial Books
Metal
Mid-20th Century English Tea Caddies
Tin
Early 20th Century English British Colonial Decorative Boxes
Tin
Antique Early 1900s English Art Nouveau Decorative Boxes
Metal
20th Century English Victorian Decorative Boxes
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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Biscuit tins are usually made out of steel and plated with tin. The plating is what gives the storage containers their name. Traditionally, people used biscuit tins to keep biscuits and other small baked goods fresh. Shop a collection of vintage and antique biscuit tins on 1stDibs.
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