{"product_id":"antique-french-napoleon-iii-ebonized-wood-amp-brass-inlay-box","title":"Antique French Napoleon III Ebonized Wood and Brass Inlay Box","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eAdditional Description\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA handsome small antique French box dating to the Napoleon III period, crafted in dark ebonized wood and decorated with finely worked brass inlay.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe chamfered rectangular lid is ornamented with a repeating geometric pattern of stylized quatrefoil and cross motifs, all executed in brass against the nearly black ground. A narrow brass border follows the perimeter of the lid, creating a striking contrast with the dark surface.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe box opens on a substantial brass hinge to reveal a warm reddish-brown wood interior. A small push-button closure is positioned at the front, with corresponding brass fittings mounted along the interior edges.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIts diminutive size suggests it was intended as a personal accessory box, possibly for snuff, tobacco, small jewelry, seals, or other personal effects. Without fitted compartments or an inscription, I would avoid assigning one specific original use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe combination of ebonized wood, brass ornament, clipped corners, and geometric decoration is especially characteristic of mid- to late-19th-century French decorative arts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEra\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrench, Napoleon III period, circa 1860–1880\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHistory\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring the reign of Napoleon III, French decorative arts embraced richly contrasting materials and historical revival styles. Dark woods such as ebony and ebonized fruitwood were frequently paired with brass, gilt metal, mother-of-pearl, and tortoiseshell-inspired decoration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSmall personal boxes were produced in a wide variety of forms for use on dressing tables, writing desks, and in pockets or traveling cases. Geometric brass inlay such as that seen here provided the luxurious appearance associated with larger Boulle-inspired furnishings, but on a much more intimate scale.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlthough reminiscent of Boulle work, this piece is more accurately described as brass-inlaid ebonized wood rather than true Boulle marquetry, as there is no tortoiseshell component visible.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrance; sourced in France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaterials\u003cbr\u003eEbonized wood\u003cbr\u003eBrass inlay and edging\u003cbr\u003eBrass hinge and push-button closure\u003cbr\u003eWood interior\u003cbr\u003eDimensions\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions to be added\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI would record:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWidth\u003cbr\u003eDepth\u003cbr\u003eHeight\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGood antique condition with wear commensurate with age and use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe exterior shows scattered surface scratches, small abrasions, and age-related wear to the dark finish. The brass inlay and edging show oxidation, rubbing, and mellowing consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe interior retains its warm reddish-brown wood surface with expected scratches and minor wear. The hinge and front closure remain present. Minor separation or movement may be visible around some metal fittings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlease review photographs carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDisclaimers\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe precise original purpose of the box is unknown. It may have been used for snuff, tobacco, small jewelry, seals, or other personal effects and is therefore catalogued simply as a small personal box.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe dark wood is described as ebonized wood rather than solid ebony unless confirmed through direct examination.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs with all antique objects, signs of age, previous use, repairs, surface variation, and minor losses should be expected.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50714097156351,"sku":null,"price":115.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0725\/8780\/4927\/files\/006A2F52-CE32-4408-8EEC-DCE41C24CD6A.png?v=1792421361","url":"https:\/\/forthelouvreofantiques.com\/es\/products\/antique-french-napoleon-iii-ebonized-wood-amp-brass-inlay-box","provider":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}