Antique French Kingwood and Bone Chevron Parquetry Box
A small box with a big graphic punch. Every surface is covered in a tight geometric parquetry of kingwood and bone, cut into interlocking chevrons so the pattern reads as a three-dimensional cube or arrow lattice depending on how the light hits it. The edges are bound in brass, with a brass band around the lid and a small brass knob on the front.
The lid lifts on a long brass hinge to a plain polished rosewood interior. It is the right size for stamps, rings, cufflinks, cards or small treasures, and it makes a wonderful object on a desk or stacked with a few other boxes.
Geometric parquetry boxes of this type were made in France in the second half of the nineteenth century, when the Paris tabletiers produced small cases for the dressing table and writing desk in exotic woods and contrasting pale inlay. The precision of the cutting is what sets the good ones apart, and this one is very crisp.
Details
Origin: France
Period: late 19th century
Material: Kingwood and bone parquetry veneer, rosewood interior, brass binding and hinge
Approximate Measurements
height: 1.25" x width3.25" x 2.25"depth
Condition
Good antique condition with wear consistent with age. Small loss to one side.
A crisp little piece of nineteenth century geometry.
