Antique French Remembrance Box with Glass Window

The glass window at the center holds a delicate hand painted, beaded and silk flower design. It originates from Paris and dates towards 1900. This type of box was used for "remembrance" and the very individual design of the little window is a reflection of this purpose.

The box is hand fashioned from heavy paper board into an octagonal form. The outer edges have been covered in gilded Dresden paper (design of repeating roses). The top has a hand marbled paper face which has been heavily lacquered. The central window is surrounded gilded paper wreaths. The domed glass holds a delicate design constructed of paint, paper, tiny metal beads, a single silk flower and dried gilded flower stems. The design seems to "float" in the layers of glass.

There is an interior box which creates a double box appearance on the inner sides. It is covered in matte gilded paper. There is an old etiquette of the Chocolaterie "Marquise de Sevigne" on the inner bottom. (During this period, very fine handmade boxes were sold by these exquisite chocolate shops; to be filled with a personal selection of sweets).

It measures: 6" x 4" x 2" high. The glass window 2 1/2 x 2 1/2". It is in very good condition; the design under glass is still intact; there is not chipping or cracks to the glass; the gilded paper and adornments are still intact and bright. Some light wear to the edges and interior as is expected with age.