French Art Nouveau Gilt Bronze and Glass Jewelry Casket with Figural Mounts and Tufted Velvet Interior
French Art Nouveau Gilt Bronze and Glass Jewelry Casket with Figural Mounts and Tufted Velvet Interior
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Additional Description: A striking and highly decorative French Art Nouveau jewelry casket, crafted with beveled glass panels set within an ornate gilt bronze (ormolu-style) frame. The piece is elevated on scrolling feet and adorned on the front with an exceptional figural mount—featuring a dynamic composition of a winged bird in flight amidst flowing naturalistic forms, florals, and organic scrollwork, emblematic of the Art Nouveau movement’s fascination with nature and movement.
The hinged lid opens to reveal a richly appointed tufted deep red velvet interior, offering a luxurious contrast to the warm gilded tones of the exterior. The top is bordered with delicate beaded ormolu trim and centered with an ornate escutcheon, retaining its original character and patina.
The glass panels, including the beveled lid, allow light to move through the piece beautifully, enhancing its display presence. The overall design is both sculptural and functional—equally suited as a jewelry casket or as a statement decorative object in a curated vignette.
Dating to the late 19th to early 20th century, this piece reflects the height of French decorative arts during the Art Nouveau period, when artisans emphasized fluid lines, organic motifs, and artistic craftsmanship.
Era: Late 19th to early 20th century (Art Nouveau period)
History: Art Nouveau (circa 1890–1910) emerged in France as a reaction against academic historicism, favoring instead natural forms, asymmetry, and expressive ornamentation. Jewelry caskets like this were popular luxury items, often displayed on vanities or dressing tables, serving both functional and decorative roles. The use of glass and gilt metal allowed for lightness and elegance while showcasing the artistry of the mounts.
Provenance: France
Materials: Gilt bronze (ormolu-style) frame, beveled glass panels, velvet-lined interior
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Wear consistent with age and use, including oxidation and patina to metal mounts, minor wear and possible lifting to gilt surface, light scratches and wear to glass panels, interior velvet showing age and wear; hinge functional and piece presents beautifully overall
Additional Description: A striking and highly decorative French Art Nouveau jewelry casket, crafted with beveled glass panels set within an ornate gilt bronze (ormolu-style) frame. The piece is elevated on scrolling feet and adorned on the front with an exceptional figural mount—featuring a dynamic composition of a winged bird in flight amidst flowing naturalistic forms, florals, and organic scrollwork, emblematic of the Art Nouveau movement’s fascination with nature and movement.
The hinged lid opens to reveal a richly appointed tufted deep red velvet interior, offering a luxurious contrast to the warm gilded tones of the exterior. The top is bordered with delicate beaded ormolu trim and centered with an ornate escutcheon, retaining its original character and patina.
The glass panels, including the beveled lid, allow light to move through the piece beautifully, enhancing its display presence. The overall design is both sculptural and functional—equally suited as a jewelry casket or as a statement decorative object in a curated vignette.
Dating to the late 19th to early 20th century, this piece reflects the height of French decorative arts during the Art Nouveau period, when artisans emphasized fluid lines, organic motifs, and artistic craftsmanship.
Era: Late 19th to early 20th century (Art Nouveau period)
History: Art Nouveau (circa 1890–1910) emerged in France as a reaction against academic historicism, favoring instead natural forms, asymmetry, and expressive ornamentation. Jewelry caskets like this were popular luxury items, often displayed on vanities or dressing tables, serving both functional and decorative roles. The use of glass and gilt metal allowed for lightness and elegance while showcasing the artistry of the mounts.
Provenance: France
Materials: Gilt bronze (ormolu-style) frame, beveled glass panels, velvet-lined interior
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Wear consistent with age and use, including oxidation and patina to metal mounts, minor wear and possible lifting to gilt surface, light scratches and wear to glass panels, interior velvet showing age and wear; hinge functional and piece presents beautifully overall