Enamel Box

This French yellow Guilloché enamel circular box, dating from circa 1900-1920, is an exquisite example of early 20th-century craftsmanship. Its vibrant yellow hue, combined with a delicate music-themed decoration, showcases the intricate Guilloché technique, which involves engraving fine patterns beneath a layer of translucent enamel. Originating in France, this piece encapsulates the elegance and attention to detail characteristic of the period. The box's compact dimensions and circular form make it an ideal collector's piece or decorative object.

Condition Report

This French Guilloché enamel circular box is in excellent condition, bearing no significant marks or damage that detract from its visual appeal or function. The enamel surface remains vivid and free from chips or scratches, while the hinge and lid mechanism operate smoothly, indicating careful preservation and minimal use over the years. The base of the box might display slight wear consistent with age, but this does not affect its overall integrity or aesthetic. The quality of this piece is a testament to its historical significance and careful craftsmanship, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

Dimensions

Weight: 65gm, Length: 5.4cm, Width: 5.4cm, Height: 1.3cm.

A Decorative Box for Personal Trinkets

This circular enamel box was likely intended for storing small personal items or trinkets. Its compact size and secure lid make it ideal for safeguarding jewellery, coins, or other small valuables. The decorative music motif suggests it may have been used by an individual with an appreciation for the arts, serving both a practical and decorative purpose in a personal space. Such boxes were often gifted and cherished as keepsakes, reflecting the personal tastes and interests of their owners.

Fine Example of Guilloché Enamel Design

The box is an exemplary representation of the Guilloché enamel design, a technique that gained popularity in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Guilloché involves engraving a repetitive, intricate pattern onto a metal surface, then covering it with a translucent enamel. The visual effect is a captivating interplay of light and texture, with the underlying pattern subtly visible beneath the enamel. This technique was frequently used on decorative objects and jewellery, prized for its ability to add depth and sophistication to everyday items.

The Craft of Guilloché Enamelling

The creation of this box involved several meticulous steps, beginning with the engraving of the Guilloché pattern onto a metal base. Skilled artisans used precision tools to carve the intricate designs, which were then coated with a layer of enamel. The box would have been fired in a kiln, causing the enamel to melt and adhere to the metal surface, creating a durable and lustrous finish. This process required a high level of skill and attention to detail, as any imperfections could mar the delicate pattern or the enamel's clarity.

Crafted by Talented French Artisans

While the specific maker of this box is not identified, it is indicative of the work of talented French artisans during the early 20th century. At this time, France was renowned for its contributions to decorative arts, with many skilled craftsmen producing high-quality enamelled objects for both domestic and international markets. This box reflects the artistry and technical expertise of its creator, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of French decorative arts.

Collected by Enthusiasts of Decorative Enamels

Guilloché enamel boxes, such as this one, are highly sought after by collectors of decorative arts. Their appeal lies in the combination of artistic and technical achievement, as well as the historical context they embody. Collectors are drawn to the vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and the craftsmanship that characterises these pieces. Such items often serve as focal points in collections, valued for their beauty and as examples of the creativity and skill of their makers.