Work Box Tool Caddy
Antique Late 19th Century British High Victorian Tea Caddies
Brass
Antique Late 18th Century English George II Tea Caddies
Glass, Boxwood, Paper
Antique Mid-19th Century English Early Victorian Tea Caddies
Brass
Antique Late 18th Century British Georgian Tea Caddies
Silver
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Antique 19th Century English Regency Tea Caddies
Brass
Antique Late 18th Century English Georgian Tea Caddies
Mahogany
Antique Mid-19th Century French Restauration Jewelry Boxes
Wood
Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy
Other
Antique 1850s British Early Victorian Jewelry Boxes
Glass, Wood
Antique Early 1800s English George III Tea Caddies
Satinwood, Tulipwood, Yew
Antique Late 18th Century British George III Tea Caddies
Brass
Antique 18th Century English Georgian Tea Caddies
Boxwood, Satinwood, Tulipwood
21st Century and Contemporary European Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Lapis Lazuli, Metal, Silver
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Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Tea Caddies
Silver, Sterling Silver
Antique 19th Century Decorative Boxes
Brass, Copper
Antique 19th Century North American Primitive 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.
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