19th century blue guilloché enamel and gilt-metal casket

19th century blue guilloché enamel and gilt-metal casket
French, 19th Century
Height 11cm, width 15cm, depth 10cm
 
This exquisite piece highlights the expert designs emerging from France in the 19th Century. The main body of the casket is crafted from vibrant blue guilloché enamel, separated into six encircling panels by gilt-metal lattices. Each lattice is separated by a protruding gilt-metal half-moon, which is bordered by a beaded design. Identical beaded borders also adorn the lid, upper rim, and lower rim of the casket. The box stands on six ball feet which are joined together by further beading. In the centre of the casket, a Rococo-style key sits in a scallop shell escutcheon.
 
The casket’s hinged lid comprises the same gilt-metal lattice work above a guilloché enamel panel. In the centre of this lattice sits a scrolled cartouche engraved with the letters ‘ANR’, likely the initials of the box’s original owner.
 
The interior of the box is lined with ribbed silk of an elegant cream colour.
 
Combining functionality and decorative appeal, this charming casket would suit both contemporary and traditional interiors.