Description

Veneered in Tulipwood

From our Jewellery Box collection, we are pleased to offer this Antique French Jewellery Box. The Jewellery Box of oval shape veneered in Tulipwood and raised upon bronze cast ormolu feet with fruits and foliage. The exterior of the box is mounted with an ormolu border with alternating decoration and three shield shaped plaques featuring alternating strips of Satinwood, Tulipwood and Rosewood. The top of the box is mounted with a matching oval panel framed within an ormolu bobbin style border. The centre of the lid has a small enamel plaque painted with a figure amongst foliage and faceted steel pins. When opened the box reveals a blue cushioned velvet lining with a Birdseye Maple veneered inner lid. The Jewellery Box dates to the 19th century during Napoleon III reign circa 1860.

Napoleon III was a highly eclectic style of architecture and decorative arts which used elements of many different historical styles and also made innovative use of modern materials. It flourished during the reign of Napoleon III (1852–1871) in France and had an important influence across Europe and North America. Major examples of the style include the Opéra Garnier, the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the Church of Saint Augustine, and the Philadelphia City Hall.

Satinwood is found in India and Sri Lanka. It has a rich golden colour and an almost reflective sheen. Satinwood is traditionally used for high quality furniture.

Tulipwood is also known as Brazilian Tulipwood, Brazilian Pinkwood and Bahia Rosewood. It is found in South America, mainly Brazil. The colour is a warm yellow with streaks or brown-red grain.

Rosewood has many variations. Indian Rosewood, Madagascan Rosewood, Mexican Rosewood, Rio Rosewood, Brazilian Rosewood, San Dominican and Santos Rosewood. All types are prized for their grain and colour. Generally, the colours range from a medium-dark red-reddish brown.

Birdseye Maple This is not a distinct species of maple. It is a growth variant of hard maple wood. Found in Northeastern America. The name derives from the appearance of tiny knots in the grain which resemble small bird’s eyes. This unique appearance is formed when the tree starts to grow new shoots in poor growing conditions and they are aborted leaving behind tiny knots.

Ormolu a technique of applying ground, high-carat gold–mercury to an object of bronze. The mercury is driven off in a kiln leaving behind a gold coating. The French refer to this technique as bronze doré and in English it is often referred to as gilt bronze. It is a finishing technique which adds an overall gold look to any object without the massive cost and impracticality of making an object out of solid gold. Mercury was outlawed in the 1830’s in France however it was still used until the early 1900s.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.