RARE! From my own collection of Antique French chocolatier's and confectioner's presentation boxes, this is a favorite! "BOISSIER, Paris", probably the preeminent maker of fine confections and chocolates of the entire 19th century, was a firm of such elegance and cachet, their boxes stand well above others, and the most coveted of all are those which have the company engraved on the lock plate, as is the case with this one. I've had a stunning variety of them, and have even sold some to the BOISSIER Museum in Paris. This one might well be of quality and rarity enough to end up there, as well. It dates to the Napoleon III era, c.1850-70s, and is in rare fine condition, to include the presence of working lock and original key. The boxes were made to be sold filled with Boissier confections, and to be kept as the souvenir of the gift of those special delicacies, once the chocolates had been consumed. The gift was the flavor, the decadence of the French chocolatier's creation, though - make no mistake. Purchased on an evening of theatre or opera, the boxes would remain a memento of the occasion. The confectioner's boxes are usually light in weight, earlier ones made in card and with glass panels and paintings - bonboniere. This one has beautifully cast edging, cabriole legs and the cartouche which shows a hand painted porcelain "Old Paris" plaque which remains undamaged. Measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, a masterpiece as these go. And typical of the Boissier boxes. The interior blue silk satin lining shows age and wear but is not shredded nor stained. The papered bottom shows that the bottom board of the coffers has a split from age. The exterior of the box is just gorgeous, no chips nor cracks. I will note that one leg seems slightly unaligned, so that it will need a small bead of felt or silicone to make the 4 legs rest evenly on a tabletop. Very simple - I can do that before sending out, if you'd like, but do want to mention it. No flaws to the appliqués, edging or cartouche. Escutcheon is also excellent and presence of the working lock and key is also superb, and rare. Top hats and tuxedo, elegant gowns and horse-drawn carriages, Palais Royal for Opera. Can't you just see it!
