Parquetry Sewing Box
Antique 18th Century and Earlier German Boxes
Recent Sales
Antique 19th Century American Mid-Century Modern Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Mahogany, Maple
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20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs
Velvet, Wood
Antique Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Taxidermy
Natural Fiber, Blown Glass, Paper, Pine
Antique 1880s Chinese Chinoiserie Furniture
Wood
Vintage 1910s English Arts and Crafts Shelves and Wall Cabinets
Brass
Antique Late 19th Century British Decorative Boxes
Teak
Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Side Tables
Walnut, Fruitwood, Rosewood
Antique Late 19th Century American Late Victorian Glass
Art Glass
Antique Late 19th Century Persian Sarouk Farahan Persian Rugs
Wool
Antique 19th Century Italian Renaissance Revival Chandeliers and Pendants
Bronze
Antique 19th Century French Napoleon III Decorative Boxes
Brass
Early 2000s Italian Glass
Blown Glass
Early 20th Century German Art Nouveau Industrial and Work Tables
Oak
Antique 19th Century English Victorian Table Lamps
Metal
Antique 19th Century Persian Persian Rugs
Wool
Antique Late 19th Century Persian Heriz Serapi Persian Rugs
Wool, Cotton
Antique 19th Century Chinese Chinese and East Asian Rugs
Wool
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.
- What is a sewing box called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023A sewing box can be called a sewing basket, a needle box or a needlepoint box. However, many people simply refer to the storage boxes for thread, needles and other sewing supplies as a sewing box. Shop a selection of sewing boxes on 1stDibs.
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