Antique Pocket Watch Stand in Wood and Boulle Marquetry, France, 1800

Antique Boulle Pocket Watch Stand. France, Circa 1800

This exquisite pocket watch stand, crafted in France around 1800, is an exceptional piece of Boulle marquetry, a decorative style that reached its peak in the 18th century and remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication. This wooden artwork, adorned with brass and gilt bronze details, is designed to house and protect pocket watches, presenting them in a luxurious setting fit for the finest collections.

The stand features a sturdy wooden structure decorated with Boulle marquetry, incorporating finely crafted brass sheets in floral and geometric patterns that contrast beautifully with the dark wood background. This interplay between the brass gilding and the deep wood tone gives the piece a noble and majestic appearance. At the top, there is an ornamental figure of two facing birds, adding a unique and eye-catching touch to the piece.

The doors of the stand are adorned with an intricate gilt bronze relief, framing a central allegorical scene notable for its depth and detail. Each element of the relief is carefully crafted, depicting figures and ornaments that evoke the nobility and classical art of the period. The sides of the piece are also decorated with floral brass inlays, maintaining the sophisticated style across its entire surface.

The lock is fully functional and includes an original key, allowing the piece to be secured and protecting the pocket watches stored within. This practical aspect enhances the aesthetic value, preserving the piece's original functionality. Inside, the compartment is lined with red velvet, providing a soft resting place for the watches and protecting them from scratches or damage.

This antique pocket watch stand is more than a simple storage accessory; it is a work of art that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any collection of antique watches. The Boulle marquetry and gilt bronze work are highly valued in the antiques market, making this piece a valuable investment for collectors as well as interior designers seeking to add a touch of history and elegance to their spaces.

Measurements: Height: 28 cm (11 in). Width: 14.5 cm (5.7 in). Depth: 7 cm (2.76 in).

History of Boulle Marquetry and Pocket Watch Stands

Boulle marquetry, named after the cabinetmaker André-Charles Boulle, was one of the most refined and elaborate decorative techniques of the 17th century in France. Characterized by the use of brass and tortoiseshell, as well as other precious materials inlaid into wood, this technique became a symbol of status and luxury at the court of Louis XIV. Pieces made with Boulle marquetry were commonly commissioned by nobility and the wealthy bourgeoisie, who sought furniture and accessories of great aesthetic and symbolic value.

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, the popularity of pocket watches led to the creation of stands like this one, designed to store and protect these prized timepieces. Pocket watch stands in Boulle marquetry not only served a practical purpose but also represented the refinement and appreciation of art by their owners. Today, these antique stands are highly valued for both their beauty and historical significance, making them sought-after pieces for collectors of antiques and watches.