
Description
Date/Period: Circa 1860 (19th Century)
Maker/Brand: French Atelier, likely Parisian
Style: Louis XVI Revival / Second Empire Neoclassical
Color: Antique Bronze with Green Enamel and Gilt Accents
Material: Cast Bronze, Guilloché Enamel, Hand-Painted Miniature, Velvet
Category: Decorative Jewelry Box / Objet d'Art
# of Pieces: 1
Step into the elegance of 19th-century France with this remarkable bronze and guilloché enamel jewelry box, created circa 1860 during the height of the Second Empire period. Combining fine metalwork, enamel artistry, and miniature portraiture, this piece epitomizes the refinement of Parisian decorative craftsmanship.
✨ Features & Craftsmanship
Exquisite French Bronze Work
Finely cast in bronze with neoclassical detailing, the box displays soft curves, floral motifs, and an authentic aged patina that speaks to its heritage. The metal retains a subtle sheen and warm golden tone from years of gentle polishing.
Guilloché Enamel & Portrait Miniature
The lid features rich green guilloché enamel, shimmering with light-catching wave patterns that shift under illumination.
Centered within the lid is a hand-painted portrait of a young woman, executed with delicate brushwork and lifelike realism.
The miniature is framed by a border of inset crystals; a few stones are missing, consistent with genuine age and authenticity.
Luxurious Interior
Opening the box reveals a golden-ochre velvet lining, soft and richly toned, ideal for rings or small treasures. The hinge operates smoothly and securely, underscoring the precision of its 19th-century construction.
Dimensions
Length: 9 cm (3.5")
Width: 7 cm (2.8")
Height: 3.5 cm (1.4")
Compact yet substantial, it is perfect for tabletop or display-cabinet presentation.
Condition
Very Good Antique Condition
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Provenance & Significance
Likely crafted in a Parisian atelier, this jewelry box exemplifies the luxury objects favored by 19th-century French elites. The combination of bronze casting, enamel artistry, and portrait miniature is rare, making this a collector's piece of museum quality.
Why It Stands Out
Authentic French Second Empire artistry (c.1860)
Rich bronze and guilloché enamel with hand-painted miniature
Velvet-lined interior in beautiful preserved condition
A perfect blend of utility and fine art, ideal for collectors or as an heirloom gift
Shipping & Packaging
Professional packaging with protective wrapping for safe delivery
Worldwide shipping with full tracking and insurance included
This 19th-century French bronze jewelry box is more than a decorative accessory"”it is a work of art that embodies the romance, craftsmanship, and refinement of its era. Whether displayed as a focal point or used to store precious keepsakes, it remains a timeless testament to French luxury and artistic excellence.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Very Good Antique Condition
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Dimensions:
Height: 1.5 in.
Width: 3.5 in.
Depth: 2.8 in.
Category: Boxes
Origin: France
Materials: Bronze, Enamel
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $95.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Loenersloot, UT
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Maker/Brand: French Atelier, likely Parisian
Style: Louis XVI Revival / Second Empire Neoclassical
Color: Antique Bronze with Green Enamel and Gilt Accents
Material: Cast Bronze, Guilloché Enamel, Hand-Painted Miniature, Velvet
Category: Decorative Jewelry Box / Objet d'Art
# of Pieces: 1
Step into the elegance of 19th-century France with this remarkable bronze and guilloché enamel jewelry box, created circa 1860 during the height of the Second Empire period. Combining fine metalwork, enamel artistry, and miniature portraiture, this piece epitomizes the refinement of Parisian decorative craftsmanship.
✨ Features & Craftsmanship
Exquisite French Bronze Work
Finely cast in bronze with neoclassical detailing, the box displays soft curves, floral motifs, and an authentic aged patina that speaks to its heritage. The metal retains a subtle sheen and warm golden tone from years of gentle polishing.
Guilloché Enamel & Portrait Miniature
The lid features rich green guilloché enamel, shimmering with light-catching wave patterns that shift under illumination.
Centered within the lid is a hand-painted portrait of a young woman, executed with delicate brushwork and lifelike realism.
The miniature is framed by a border of inset crystals; a few stones are missing, consistent with genuine age and authenticity.
Luxurious Interior
Opening the box reveals a golden-ochre velvet lining, soft and richly toned, ideal for rings or small treasures. The hinge operates smoothly and securely, underscoring the precision of its 19th-century construction.
Dimensions
Length: 9 cm (3.5")
Width: 7 cm (2.8")
Height: 3.5 cm (1.4")
Compact yet substantial, it is perfect for tabletop or display-cabinet presentation.
Condition
Very Good Antique Condition
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Provenance & Significance
Likely crafted in a Parisian atelier, this jewelry box exemplifies the luxury objects favored by 19th-century French elites. The combination of bronze casting, enamel artistry, and portrait miniature is rare, making this a collector's piece of museum quality.
Why It Stands Out
Authentic French Second Empire artistry (c.1860)
Rich bronze and guilloché enamel with hand-painted miniature
Velvet-lined interior in beautiful preserved condition
A perfect blend of utility and fine art, ideal for collectors or as an heirloom gift
Shipping & Packaging
Professional packaging with protective wrapping for safe delivery
Worldwide shipping with full tracking and insurance included
This 19th-century French bronze jewelry box is more than a decorative accessory"”it is a work of art that embodies the romance, craftsmanship, and refinement of its era. Whether displayed as a focal point or used to store precious keepsakes, it remains a timeless testament to French luxury and artistic excellence.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Very Good Antique Condition
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Dimensions:
Height: 1.5 in.
Width: 3.5 in.
Depth: 2.8 in.
Category: Boxes
Origin: France
Materials: Bronze, Enamel
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Very Good Antique Condition
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Guilloché enamel vibrant and intact.
Minor surface wear and light patina consistent with age.
Several crystals missing from the portrait border, adding authentic character.
Hinge and structure solid and functional; no repairs or replacements.
Buyer's Premium
20%
19thC French Bronze Guilloche Enamel Jewelry Box C1860
Estimate $550-$1,130
Starting Price
$550
1 bidder is watching this item
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Vintage & Design Auction
Mar 13, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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