
Description
This exceptional Grand Tour dressing box or humidor, crafted in France circa 1880, epitomizes the luxurious design and meticulous craftsmanship of the late 19th century. Constructed from bronze, the box is adorned with striking white and blue two-tone enamel detailing, lending a refined elegance to its exterior. Central to the lid is a finely crafted pietra dura floral plaque, featuring an intricate arrangement of inlaid semi-precious stones"”a testament to the enduring influence of Italian artistry on French decorative arts of the period.
The box is further enhanced by rope twist accents along the lid and base, adding texture and a sophisticated flourish to the overall design. Dual handles on the lid are both practical and decorative, reinforcing the box's luxurious appeal.
The interior opens to reveal a plush velvet lining, which retains its original gilding attributed to John Joseph Mechi, a renowned 19th-century craftsman known for his finely made boxes. The interior design suggests the box was originally intended to house perfume bottles, small liquor bottles, or perhaps serve as a humidor for cigars, highlighting its functional versatility while maintaining its status as an elegant decorative object.
Measures:
7" w x 5.25" h.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Minor wear commensurate with age and use. Surface is unpolished and does have some age wear.
Dimensions:
Height: 5.25 in.
Width: 7 in.
Depth: 7 in.
Category: Boxes
Origin: France
Materials: Bronze, Enamel, Marble, Velvet
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $42.00 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 Atlanta, GA
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.
The box is further enhanced by rope twist accents along the lid and base, adding texture and a sophisticated flourish to the overall design. Dual handles on the lid are both practical and decorative, reinforcing the box's luxurious appeal.
The interior opens to reveal a plush velvet lining, which retains its original gilding attributed to John Joseph Mechi, a renowned 19th-century craftsman known for his finely made boxes. The interior design suggests the box was originally intended to house perfume bottles, small liquor bottles, or perhaps serve as a humidor for cigars, highlighting its functional versatility while maintaining its status as an elegant decorative object.
Measures:
7" w x 5.25" h.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Minor wear commensurate with age and use. Surface is unpolished and does have some age wear.
Dimensions:
Height: 5.25 in.
Width: 7 in.
Depth: 7 in.
Category: Boxes
Origin: France
Materials: Bronze, Enamel, Marble, Velvet
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; Minor wear commensurate with age and use. Surface is unpolished and does have some age wear.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Grand Tour Bronze, Two-Tone Enamel & Pietra Dura Dressing Box or Humidor C. 1880
Estimate $950-$2,840
Starting Price
$190
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Classical and Contemporary
Mar 27, 2026 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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