Antique French Gilt Bronze and Agate Casket with Woven Basketweave and Rococo Mounts

A French jewelry casket in gilt bronze, worked all over in a fine basketweave so the whole box shimmers like woven gold thread. It's set with polished agate and hardstone cabochons in green, banded brown, honey, and milky white: long bars and small domes across the lid, large ovals around the sides. A cast rococo shell and acanthus ornament crowns the lid, and the box stands on four scrolled corner feet.

It is a rare and very decorative piece, the sort of box that makes everything put inside it look more important than it is. The lid opens to a soft pink lining, and the front keeps its keyhole escutcheon.

The feet were made to sit slightly loose in their mounts. This is how the box was constructed. The key is present and works the lock, but it is seated firmly in the keyhole and we chose not to force it out.

Details

• Origin: France
• Materials: gilt bronze with a woven basketweave ground; agate and hardstone cabochons; lined interior
• Key: included and working; remains in the lock
• Dimensions: 5.5" × 3.5" × 4" H
• Condition: the feet sit slightly loose by construction; light wear consistent with age. Please review all photos.