{"product_id":"antique-victorian-mother-of-pearl-parquetry-jewelry-casket-with-lavender-silk-interior-circa-1880-1900","title":"Antique Victorian Mother-of-Pearl Parquetry Jewelry Casket with Lavender Silk Interior, Circa 1880–1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eAdditional Description\u003cbr\u003eAn elegant antique rectangular jewelry casket adorned with luminous mother-of-pearl veneer arranged in an intricate geometric parquetry design. The exterior features alternating diamond-shaped and triangular sections of iridescent shell, creating a beautiful interplay of soft ivory, champagne, pink, and pale green reflections.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe hinged lid displays an elaborate geometric pattern, framed by angled mother-of-pearl borders that continue around the sides of the casket. A small metal button-style clasp decorates the front, while four rounded metal feet elevate the box.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOpening the lid reveals a delicate light lavender silk-lined interior, providing a soft resting place for treasured jewelry, personal keepsakes, or small heirlooms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe combination of lustrous natural shell, carefully arranged geometric ornamentation, and pastel silk lining gives this charming casket a refined, romantic character.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEra\u003cbr\u003eLate Victorian Period, circa 1880–1900.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAn early 20th-century production date remains possible.\u003cbr\u003eHistory\u003cbr\u003eMother-of-pearl was a highly prized decorative material throughout the 19th century, admired for its naturally iridescent surface and association with refined luxury.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCraftsmen used thin sections of polished nacre to ornament jewelry boxes, sewing caskets, writing accessories, and other personal objects. Geometric parquetry arrangements were particularly attractive because they allowed the changing colors of the shell to produce an elaborate decorative effect without additional painted embellishment.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring the Victorian period, jewelry and keepsake caskets became fashionable accessories for dressing tables and private interiors. Many were fitted with silk or velvet linings to protect delicate contents.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe present example reflects this tradition of decorative craftsmanship, combining geometric mother-of-pearl veneer with a softly colored silk interior.\u003cbr\u003eProvenance\u003cbr\u003eLikely European manufacture, possibly British or Continental.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecific maker and original place of manufacture have not been established.\u003cbr\u003eMaterials\u003cbr\u003e- Natural mother-of-pearl shell veneer\u003cbr\u003e- Wood or composite underlying structure\u003cbr\u003e- Light lavender silk interior lining\u003cbr\u003e- Metal hinge, clasp, and rounded feet\u003cbr\u003eDimensions\u003cbr\u003eMeasurements to be confirmed.\u003cbr\u003eCondition\/Disclaimers\u003cbr\u003eAntique condition consistent with age and use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe mother-of-pearl exterior retains attractive iridescence, with variations in coloration characteristic of natural shell. Several sections of mother-of-pearl veneer are missing from the upper lid, with additional minor surface wear and visible joins between individual veneer pieces.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe light lavender silk lining remains present, showing age-related wear and minor discoloration. The metal fittings exhibit some patination.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe hinged lid opens to reveal the lined compartment. The closure has not been independently tested.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlease review all photographs carefully, particularly those illustrating the veneer losses on the lid.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50778711982335,"sku":null,"price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0725\/8780\/4927\/files\/231BDE98-672C-450B-B68C-F3D18740FE2A.png?v=1792937915","url":"https:\/\/forthelouvreofantiques.com\/fr\/products\/antique-victorian-mother-of-pearl-parquetry-jewelry-casket-with-lavender-silk-interior-circa-1880-1900","provider":"For the Louvre of Antiques LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}