A stunning antique French cigar chest, large sized and huge on appeal, this fine Napoleon III era (c.1850-70) ebonized chest is brilliant with heavy polished brass pencil edging, inlays of mother of pearl flowers above bright brass stems. All of the original cigar trays (4) remain inside, though there is an old restoration on one (see images for detail), and a nice drawer at bottom for cigar paraphernalia or more cigars. Holds 48, is not a humidor, though it's the most gorgeous presentation chest you'll ever find. The finish is excellent, the inlays are all there but a couple toward back on top, one of which is signed as a little heart (see image detail). Original working lock and the original key still with this one. Superb and rare to find in such beautiful shape. Lots of photos. The contrast of wood grain interior and the black or 'ebonized' exterior with all its brass and colorful mother of pearl inlays makes you struggle - display it open or closed. It will not last long in our shop. Don't miss this one! Just in from Paris.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. Finish and boulle inlays of highly polished brass and shimmering colorful mother of pearl delight the eye. Open and reveal the hardwood interior's rich color and craftsmanship. I see a couple of imperfections, each noted in detail in our photos: tiny bit of brass inlay gone upper rear right lid, but also a little heart 'signature' there; and a tray has an old repaired break, also detailed in our photos. Quite typical for there to be a break to tray, less typical to have all 4 of the originals still in chest, still with the little knobs. No odors. Fabulous! Beautiful! RARE!
