Stunningly beautiful 19th century French cabinetry Master work, an intricate parquet of fine Kingwood trimmed in heavy cast dore bronze and raised on cabriole legs, this one with lift-out tray would have been a work box, a sewing box, possibly gentleman's large jewelry or cigars chest. Over-sized, it is nearly 14" long (13 3/4") x 9 1/2". Working lock with original key still with it, it has been cared for with exceptional care to leave it in this magnificent condition. Full measurements noted on our photos - a rare and spectacular box, nearly the size of a trousseau box. Dates Napoleon III Era (c.1850-70s).
Very good to excellent condition for age and type - throughout. I'm able to find 2 tiny losses, and those won't show unless you get down level to the box and search it - 2 very tiny nips to points of veneer (marked with X and pointed out for your review). Everything else is flat, firmly intact and just stunning. A most intricate pattern I have never seen on another. Oh, also, that lift-out tray seems it would have had 2 brass curved wire or bars at the raised side handle spots, making them slightly easier handles to lift the tray. It looks to me one could very easily work in a replacement arched wire into the provided holes. The chest is, truly, large enough to use for your French silver flatware, layered in bottom and in the tray. Fabulous as a desk or table box.
