Posted 10 years ago
jensen
(100 items)
I recently bought this somewhat battered box because I could not resist the intricate art nouveau / Jugendstil ornamentation! I bought it from an elderly lady who had it from her in-laws, so it definitely has some age to it. I am mystified both as to where it was made and what it was made for (click to enlarge pictues).
It is relatively big (33.5 x 22.5 x 17 cm / 13.2 x 8.9 x 6.7 in); thus too big for jewelry, but too small for e.g. hats or dresses. It used to have a key (now lost) along with chains to hold the lid (one of which remains). I very much doubt that it is Danish or even Scandinavian – as cogito pointed out in the ‘Viking Style Table’ post (http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/108330-circa-1900-scandinavian-viking-style-a (comment)), this style didn’t really catch on here (or was quickly translated into something else). It is decorated with intricate decorative patterns. On the lid a conveniently draped angel with a torch appears to be standing on a globe, flanked by shooting stars.
So what do you say, fellow collectors – any suggestions?
Pictures l-r: 1) front, 2) lid, 3) back, 4) with opened lid
its very very beautiful Jensen!!! I could not resist loving this!!
Thanks, Sean! And paris1925 - yes, I guess that's a possibility, but then I wonder why the box has a lock...?
Your very welcome Jensen!! I don't think this was for chocolates. may be letters!! or postcards!!
Thanks, paris1925 - you may very well be right!
Yes, I've looked very closely, but so far I haven't found any marks, unfortunately.
I believe that Paris1925 is correct. This was most likely some sort of advertisement or product presentation piece. I wouldn't be terribly surprised to learn that the motif with the torch bearing angel above the world was a company logo. I think this design on the top is your best clue.
I surrender - I do think it must be a tin of some sort, although I am still intrigued by the lock (but I guess if you have some particularly delicious marrons glacés you would want to lock them up!). I have looked everywhere on the tin, but not found any names or signatures, but I agree that the figure must be clue (and thanks for the reference to Dumont's statue, paris1925!). Thanks for the comments and loves, everyone!
Very beautiful!