Pietre Dure Casket
Antique 19th Century European Greco Roman Decorative Boxes
Stone, Bronze
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Antique 19th Century European Other Decorative Boxes
Stone, Gold Plate, Bronze
Antique 19th Century Neoclassical Decorative Boxes
Stone, Marble
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Antique 15th Century and Earlier Uruguayan Natural Specimens
Amethyst, Quartz
Vintage 1920s Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases
Mahogany
20th Century American Art Nouveau Table Lamps
Bronze
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Chinese Natural Specimens
Stone, Multi-gemstone
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Animal Sculptures
Crystal, Gold Plate, Brass
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Uruguayan Natural Specimens
Amethyst, Quartz
Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Doors and Gates
Glass, Art Glass, Wood
Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Tea Caddies
Tortoise Shell, Mother-of-Pearl
Early 20th Century French Other Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes
Multi-gemstone, Gold, Enamel
20th Century Art Nouveau Decorative Boxes
Mother-of-Pearl, Glass, Art Glass
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Uruguayan Natural Specimens
Agate, Amethyst, Quartz
Antique 19th Century British Victorian Decorative Boxes
Silver
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Moroccan Natural Specimens
Other
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Norwegian Natural Specimens
Multi-gemstone, Silver
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Russian Natural Specimens
Other
Antique Late 19th Century French Napoleon III Planters and Jardinieres
Brass, Ormolu
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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