Antique French Cut Crystal Casket with Gilt Mounts

A cylinder of cut crystal with gilt mounts. It's the sort of thing a nineteenth-century dressing table considered essential and a modern one is lucky to have.

The body is cut all over in a diamond pattern that catches the light from every direction. The lid is crowned with a radiating star cut, so it sparkles from above too. A band of gilt metal holds it together and turns on a neat hinge, closing with the satisfying weight of something that was made to last.

Use it for rings, cotton balls, or nothing at all. It's equally convincing in each role.

The gilt has softened gently with age, and the crystal shows the light wear of a piece that has actually been used, which we consider part of its charm.

Details

• Origin: France
• Materials: Cut crystal, gilt metal mounts
• Dimensions: 4.5" H × 2.5" diameter
• Condition: Antique, with gentle wear to the gilt and crystal consistent with age