We have a huge warehouse. Over the years, buying in France, we've bought several very nice Palais Royal sewing boxes, not quite complete, with full intention of filling them in. Often, as we wander small markets throughout France, opportunity comes to buy same era sewing tools and scent bottles, spools, scissors, to fill them, or perhaps a poorly preserved casket but pristine tools - mother of pearl or sterling silver - vermeil. At this point in time, though, it seems prudent to pass along our "project" boxes and let someone else enjoy the 'restoration' of the sewing implements, mirror, as needed. This is one of those sewing boxes. Beautiful old marquetry casket, sarcophagus form which were popular in the late 1700s through Napoleonic era. Beautifully crafted chests which would have originally been sold through boutiques of the old Palais Royal, the Palace of Cardinal Richelieu. This one is missing the tools, which might have been mother of pearl, or perhaps silver. Fine quality sets for the elite. The boxes, alone, are beautiful as table boxes. This one is a personal favorite. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent for age and type, casket and tray. As is visible, it has none of the sewing tools which would have filled the fitted openings in the tray. A project piece! Also, the interior of the lid would have had a mirror (easily replaced) with a trim of chenille at border. For age, the box is very nice, though you can see roughness at the outer corners of the lid. No loss to the marquetry of contrasting woods. Working lock but no key at listing. Large for these, nearly 8".
