An exceptional piece! Of course, for those who know French boxes, TAHAN is the very best of the best of a handful of lauded 19th century makers. This beautiful single well tea caddy is a signature TAHAN, Paris box (engraved lock plate). Further, it bears a hand painted portrait miniature of the young son of Napoleon Bonaparte, ill-fated as they both were. This must have been a special commission. I have not seen any other boxes made like this one at all. Sadly, we don't have its story beyond what I'm telling you. The painting is fabulous and the box, as well. The only flaw is that it has a little missing veneer (noted with an "x" on our photos so you can review it fully). That aside, it retains its 2 internal covers, the original working lock and its key, and no other flaws notable. A rarity, since we just don't find many French tea caddies, and rarer still because it's a portrait commemorative. Fabulous! Don't miss it! I'm listing one other French TAHAN tea caddy today, too - larger and ebonized boulle in design. Sold separately, you'll want to see it for sure. The quality of a TAHAN box says it all. Museum piece!
Very good to excellent condition with a nod to one spot where there is some missing veneer. Kingwood parquet work - beautiful old wood. The engraved pencil-edging trim is all intact and so is the entirety of the painting, its slightly convex cover glass and frame/mat. The working lock and present original key adds, as well. Both interior lids are with the box, still. Measurements are noted on our photos. Superb museum piece!
