In a time when sugar was a rarity, an expensive imported luxury, the French created suitably opulent caskets to hold it. Lockable so they could keep servants from pilfering sugar - caskets like this early 1800s example. We've had and sold perhaps 25 over the decades, none more beautiful than this one. The earlier ones are smaller, and they expanded in size through mid-1800s as access to sugar was eased a bit with trade. I've written much about early French confections, chocolatiers and confectioners of France creating the most delectable temptations, confits, bonbons in that era when both sugar and chocolate found their way there with Napoleon's conquests of Nations in the Far East. The white opaline and Rich Napoleonic era dore bronze framework - to die for now as then. Measurements noted on our photos, but it's an early one, 4" long.
Very good to excellent condition, no chips, no hairlines, no cracks, no tiny nips even. The only thing missing is the original key to lock away the sugar. Side handles are hinged, the lock escutcheon is elaborate, and the 4 ball feet elevate it in elegance, as well. Superb, and from my collection.
