1860s Jean Derval Gilt Bronze Crystal Portrait Box

Details

Description

This exquisite 19th-century French crystal jewelry casket, dating to approximately 1860–1880, combines brilliant cut crystal, richly ornamented gilt bronze, and … Read more This exquisite 19th-century French crystal jewelry casket, dating to approximately 1860–1880, combines brilliant cut crystal, richly ornamented gilt bronze, and a delicate hand-painted portrait miniature signed Jean Derval. Created during the French Second Empire period, the piece is a beautiful example of the luxurious decorative objects produced for elegant dressing tables and refined interiors.

The body is formed from substantial faceted clear crystal, cut to catch and reflect the surrounding light from multiple angles. The underside is particularly decorative, featuring a finely executed starburst cut that creates additional brilliance and depth.

An elaborate gilt-bronze framework surrounds the crystal body. Scrolling ornamentation, floral details, and classical garlands give the casket its richly decorative French character, while the naturally aged gilded surface provides a warm contrast against the clear crystal.

The hinged lid is centered with a charming hand-painted portrait miniature of a young woman, rendered in soft and delicate tones. The portrait is signed Jean Derval, adding further artistic and collectible interest to this already distinctive antique object.

Opening the casket reveals its original fitted mirror inside the lid, a charming functional detail that reflects its original use as a jewelry or trinket box. Today, the piece would display beautifully on a dressing table, vanity, writing desk, console, or within a collection of French decorative arts.

Date / Period: Circa 1860–1880, 19th Century / Second Empire
Maker / Brand: Portrait signed Jean Derval
Style: French Second Empire / Louis XVI Revival Influence
Color: Clear crystal with warm gilt-gold accents
Materials: Cut crystal, gilt bronze, hand-painted portrait miniature, and mirror glass
Category: Jewelry Box / Trinket Casket – 1 Piece
Origin: France

Decorative Details:
- Faceted clear crystal casket
- Starburst-cut crystal underside
- Ornate gilt-bronze framework
- Floral, garland, and scrolling decoration
- Hand-painted portrait miniature
- Portrait signed Jean Derval
- Hinged lid
- Original fitted interior mirror

Approximate Measurements

Height: 6 cm / 2.5 in
Diameter: 9.5 cm / 3.7 in

Its compact scale makes it ideal for storing jewelry, rings, or small keepsakes, while its craftsmanship makes it equally appealing purely as a decorative collectible.

Condition

Very good antique condition with minor age-related wear consistent with its 19th-century date and previous use.

The crystal remains clear and attractive, with no major cracks or repairs observed. The gilt-bronze decoration retains a warm antique patina, while the painted portrait remains bright and well preserved with the signature visible.

The original interior mirror displays gentle age-related wear, contributing to the authentic antique character of the piece.

Please review the photographs carefully as part of the condition description.

Shipping

The casket will be professionally protected with multiple layers of high-quality packing materials, with particular attention given to the crystal body, portrait miniature, hinged lid, and interior mirror.

Worldwide shipping is available from our warehouse in the Netherlands using a reliable international courier. Tracking and insurance are included. See less