Antique French Thuya Burl Glove Box with Tufted Red Silk Interior, Napoleon III, c. 1860–1890

Antique French Thuya Burl Glove Box with Tufted Red Silk Interior

A long, elegant burl box made for gloves, and still perfect for them. The exterior is veneered in beautifully figured thuya burl, honey and chestnut, with a gently domed lid edged in a darker band. Open it and the inside is a complete surprise: the lid is upholstered in deeply buttoned red silk, like a tiny tufted settee, and the base is lined to match.

The key is present with a pink silk tassel. The proportions are what make this box so useful: it is the right length for long gloves, but also for pens, letters, watches, bracelets or a row of small treasures.

Glove boxes were a standard part of the French dressing table in the second half of the nineteenth century, sold alongside matching jewel and handkerchief boxes. This one has the kind of rich burl veneer that the best Paris makers reserved for their nicer pieces.

Details

Origin: France
Period: Napoleon III, c. 1860–1890
Material: Thuya burl veneer, tufted silk lining, brass hinges and lock
Includes: Key with tassel

Approximate Measurements

height 3.25" x length 12.5" x depth 4.5"

Condition

Good antique condition with wear consistent with age. Interior silk in great  condition, lock works with the key.

A beautiful box with a jewel of an interior.