Wood Inlay Masonic
Antique Early 1800s English George III Tea Caddies
Satinwood, Tulipwood, Yew
Early 20th Century Unknown Edwardian Decorative Boxes
Abalone, Mother-of-Pearl, Wood
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Antique Early 19th Century European Tea Caddies
Sycamore
Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Early Victorian Decorative Boxes
Bronze, Steel, Cut Steel, Other, Iron
Antique 1880s English Late Victorian Decorative Boxes
Brass
Antique 19th Century English Regency Tea Caddies
Brass
Antique Late 19th Century British Decorative Boxes
Teak
Antique Late 18th Century English Georgian Tea Caddies
Mahogany
Antique Late 18th Century English George III Tea Caddies
Boxwood, Satinwood, Harewood
Antique 18th Century English Georgian Tea Caddies
Boxwood, Yew, Satinwood
Antique 1790s English Tea Caddies
Hardwood
Antique Mid-19th Century French Jewelry Boxes
Brass
Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Tableware
Metal
Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes
Straw, Wood, Cork
Antique Late 19th Century English Edwardian Tea Caddies
Wood
Antique Late 18th Century English Georgian Tea Caddies
Boxwood, Tulipwood, Harewood
Antique 1860s American Aesthetic Movement Pedestals
Wood
Antique 1880s American Aesthetic Movement Tables
Oak
Recent Sales
Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Decorative Boxes
Wood
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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