An unusual piece, c.1850-70s French heavy brass and champleve enamel desktop box or stamps box with a beautifully crafted dragon formed into the handle. We've had similar pieces that were candle holders, but I've never seen this form. Interesting perforations on the hinged lid made me wonder if it might have been an ashtray, instead, but the curved recess is more typical for early stamps. Came to us with 2 other stamps boxes (final photo shows all 3 together - sold separately). Many of these beautiful champleve items came from Barbedienne Foundry, and it seems likely the quality of this one would link it to Barbedienne, but it is not a signature piece. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout. I have not polished the metal, preferring the patina of age, but it will polish to bright brass should you wish to polish it. I see no losses to the stunning champleve enamel work, and the dragon wings are gorgeous. No flaws to note. Stamp collector, philatelist interest.
