You know I'm a box collector from way back, and I've always been partial to the old French kingwood boxes. The straight even grain lends itself so beautifully to intricate parquet. This one from the cabinet makers of the Napoleon III era, (c.1850-70) is large and as close to excellent as you'll find - look at all that work on the top and sides - mother of pearl and complimenting outlines of wood and such precision work in the pattern. Add to that the richness of the brass pencil edging, the canted corners and the hardware used, and it's a top quality work of eboniste's art. The old original silk lining still in place and in very nice condition, as well. One would expect that lock plate to be engraved, "TAHAN", or Sormani, Giroux, or Vervelle - one of the top 19th century cabinetry firms of Paris. A fabulous table box or jewelry chest. Full measurements on photos, but it is nearly 11 x 8, roomy inside! It's not a humidor, but it would be a wonderful cigar chest for wrapped cigars, wouldn't it.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. The incredibly complicated inlay, parquet, on this one is a thrill and not a piece missing nor damaged. Canted corners. An amazing array of mother of pearl up top to shimmer and reflect the light.
