Maitland Smith Pagoda Box
Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Marble, Brass
People Also Browsed
20th Century Afghan Decorative Boxes
Lapis Lazuli
Vintage 1980s American Post-Modern Paperweights
Copper
Late 20th Century Philippine Post-Modern Decorative Boxes
Travertine, Marble, Brass
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Marble, Onyx
Vintage 1970s American Post-Modern Decorative Boxes
Travertine, Brass
20th Century Philippine Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Stone, Brass
Late 20th Century Decorative Boxes
Stone, Marble
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets
Onyx, Marble
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Marble, Brass
Vintage 1970s American Hollywood Regency Decorative Boxes
Coral
Vintage 1980s Philippine Hollywood Regency Decorative Boxes
Marble, Brass
20th Century Hollywood Regency Decorative Boxes
Stone, Brass
Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Picture Frames
Travertine
Vintage 1980s American Jewelry Boxes
Marble
Recent Sales
Late 20th Century Modern Boxes
Stone, Brass
Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Cast Stone, Brass
Late 20th Century Philippine Hollywood Regency 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.