For the love of chocolate! A history of this firm since 1806, this box would be c. 1850-1900. "Ancient Maison Louis Marquis SIRAUDIN, Successeur", at "Place de L'Opèra, 17, 19 Bd. des Capucines - PARIS." In remarkable condition, creamy moire silk with elaborate Art Nouveau, Belle Epoch metal thread embroidery and set with cabochons of turquoise and paste gems. Thick work with woven metal braid, the Fleur d lys sprouts mature wheat shafts that blossom out into something reminiscent of Peacock's tail feathers. A magnificent beautiful work of embroidery art, and all to house the elaborate confections of the chocolatier whose pristine gold on white stamp remains inside. The boxes were made to be the souvenir of the experience of consuming the most elaborate (and pricey) confections of the famed Paris chocolatiers. Fabulous history, perhaps the #1 among them would be Boissier, whose presentation boxes were this elaborate, and more. The box is large, much larger than the late 1700s to earlier 1800s boxes, and would have held quite an array of chocolates. The interior had been lined in foil to keep them fresh and perfect while the gift recipient consumed them. It is 8" square and about 2 1/2" tall when closed.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, age and type considered. The heavy moire silk is beautifully preserved and I don't find a bit of loss to the stitching. Remember, entirely constructed and embroidered by hand, a box befitting the elevated ranking of the chocolates from Maison LOUIS MARQUIS SIRAUDIN, Paris.
