Art Nouveau 800 Silver Jewel Box with Vermeil Interior, Germany, 1890s

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Description

A refined solid silver jewel box of German manufacture from the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) period, dating back to the early … Read more A refined solid silver jewel box of German manufacture from the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) period, dating back to the early 20th century. An excellent example of Central European silversmithing, featuring an intricate engine-turned guilloché ground and elegant sculptural applications.

This elegant antique solid silver casket perfectly embodies the grace and sophistication of the Art Nouveau / Jugendstil era. The lid and the beautifully shaped lobed body feature a sophisticated geometric background with a finely textured engine-turned satin finish, framed at the corners by delicate stylized botanical engravings.

The center of the lid is adorned with a prominent three-dimensional sculptural finial depicting a bouquet of three flowers. One of the blossoms retains a small orange-red hardstone cabochon within its setting (the other two settings show signs of time with their original stones missing, a detail that bears witness to its authenticity and long history). The front lip handle and the four scroll feet masterfully echo the same organic, flowing motifs typical of the period's design.

Upon lifting the lid, the box reveals a richly and entirely gilded interior (vermeil), preserved in excellent vintage condition and perfect for holding jewelry or small precious objects.

The "800" silver hallmark stamped inside an oval cartouche underneath the front lip formally certifies its fine German craftsmanship.

Dimensions:
• Height: 5 cm (2 inches)
• Width: 15 cm (5.9 inches)
• Depth: 13.5 cm (5.3 inches)
• Weight: 433 grams See less