Exquisite 19th-Century French Opaline Glass Casket with Gilt Bronze Mounts
Napoleon III Era | Circa 1850–1870
This breathtaking French opaline glass casket is a rare and theatrical example of Second Empire design. Crafted during the mid-19th century, the domed body is formed from milky white opaline glass and mounted in ornate gilt bronze with Rococo-style scrollwork feet, architectural spandrels, and a beaded border. Both the top and base are delicately hand-painted with garlands of petite enameled flowers and fine blue bands in concentric symmetry—a subtle nod to neoclassical design within a romantic silhouette.
The interior is lined in brilliant turquoise silk satin with matching cording, perfectly preserved and likely original to the piece. This striking color not only enhances the jewel-box quality of the casket but also reveals its intended function as a bijoutier—a display box for cherished trinkets, jewelry, or sentimental objects. The casket opens on a secure piano hinge and closes with a working clasp.
Caskets of this quality were often produced in Parisian ateliers for export to elite clients across Europe. The craftsmanship, enamel work, and gilt bronze mounts suggest a piece intended for the upper bourgeoisie or courtly clientele during the height of the Napoleon III decorative arts revival.
Details:
• Hand-painted white opaline glass with enameled florals and linear motifs
• Gilded bronze (ormolu) mounts with Rococo feet and beaded trim
• Turquoise satin lining with braided border
• Likely French, mid-19th century (Napoleon III period)
• Possibly from the ateliers of Baccarat, St. Louis, or an affiliated Parisian workshop
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Minor oxidation to mounts and light wear to paint in keeping with age. No cracks or chips to glass.
Exquisite 19th-Century French Opaline Glass Casket with Gilt Bronze Mounts
Napoleon III Era | Circa 1850–1870
This breathtaking French opaline glass casket is a rare and theatrical example of Second Empire design. Crafted during the mid-19th century, the domed body is formed from milky white opaline glass and mounted in ornate gilt bronze with Rococo-style scrollwork feet, architectural spandrels, and a beaded border. Both the top and base are delicately hand-painted with garlands of petite enameled flowers and fine blue bands in concentric symmetry—a subtle nod to neoclassical design within a romantic silhouette.
The interior is lined in brilliant turquoise silk satin with matching cording, perfectly preserved and likely original to the piece. This striking color not only enhances the jewel-box quality of the casket but also reveals its intended function as a bijoutier—a display box for cherished trinkets, jewelry, or sentimental objects. The casket opens on a secure piano hinge and closes with a working clasp.
Caskets of this quality were often produced in Parisian ateliers for export to elite clients across Europe. The craftsmanship, enamel work, and gilt bronze mounts suggest a piece intended for the upper bourgeoisie or courtly clientele during the height of the Napoleon III decorative arts revival.
Details:
• Hand-painted white opaline glass with enameled florals and linear motifs
• Gilded bronze (ormolu) mounts with Rococo feet and beaded trim
• Turquoise satin lining with braided border
• Likely French, mid-19th century (Napoleon III period)
• Possibly from the ateliers of Baccarat, St. Louis, or an affiliated Parisian workshop
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Minor oxidation to mounts and light wear to paint in keeping with age. No cracks or chips to glass.