Antique Bronze Jewellery Box Maison Boissier

About the Item

This fine and exceptional 19th-century French chocolate kingwood and the ormolu casket/jewellery box by Maison Boissier. The story of Maison Boissier begins in 1827, when Béllissaire Boissier, the founder and chocolatier set up his first stall on the Boulevard des Capucines. His first shop was in Place de l’Etoile in Paris, now known as the Place Charles de Gaulle. Béllisaire’s incredible creations became a great success, quickly favored by the ladies of Parisian high society. Carriages would stop outside of his shops to allow Parisians to replenish the stock of their favourite chocolate treats. Victor Hugo, Emily Zola, and Alexandre Dumas were Boissier’s regular clients. The top of the box is fitted with a handpainted plaque depicting a group of female figures, one female playing the mandolin and three others sitting around her, two holding the notes. They are wearing 18th-century style dresses surrounded by foliage, flowers, and trees. The plaque is mounted in a highly decorated ormolu decoration ending with eight turquoise colour cabochons. Each side of this rare, oval casket is decorated in ormolu with six pairs of cherubs holding a cartouche with turquoise cabochons in the centre and standing on eight elephants' form feet. The lock is stamped 'Maison Boissier' and the interior is lined with plush lining. The casket has its original key. Measurements are 27 cm in width x 11 cm in height, and 85 cm in diameter Condition: One turquoise cabochon is missing. Some wear, cracks, and minor chips to the wood, and hairline on one of the cabochons. They are two splits on the central plaque and wear to the lining inside. Hinge and key in working condition. Beautiful and extremely rare piece and the largest, most exceptional casket we've ever had in our collection.

Creator:

Maison Boissier

Metal:

Bronze

Place of Origin:

France

Period:

1830-1839

Date of Manufacture:

1830's

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.