Magnificent Carved Noble Wood Cigar Box. France, Late XIX Century

Amazing antique cigar box, quite attractive and decorated with hand-carved motives. This gorgeous box was made in the late 19th century: it is an ancient piece that has survived to our days in excellent condition. The box is made of solid walnut wood and keeps all its parts: the wood is perfect, with no missing parts or cracks, and remains as beautiful and solid as the first day of use. It keeps the original lock and key in perfect working order and we can also see the five inside trays with grooves designed to neatly store the cigars. Outside the box is decorated with hand-carved motives: vegetal-inspired panels symmetrically disposed. The lid shows a big central oval framed by four carved corners depicting ivy plants. The front side is attached to the lid by a couple of hinges: when we lift the lid, the front side folds and lets us see the cigar trays. This front panel shows a wonderful floral decoration, carved in high relief and surrounded by Modernist fringes. At the bottom we can see the boxs lock. The side and rear panels are embellished with hand-carved motives depicting stylized ivy plants. These motives are free and charming, and reveal the work of a skilful carver. All the carved motives are framed by abstract fringes, simple and elegant. These details are typical of the transition between the classic decorative arts from the 19th century and the upcoming Modernist style that succeeded in the early 20th century. The box is also protected by a wonderful French-polish finish that enhances the golden brown color of the wood and provides the carving work with relief and glow. Because of its ancient age and extreme beauty, this awesome cigar box is bound to shine in the classiest study or living room. Measurements: Width: 9.8 in / 25 cm. Height: 6.2 in / 16 cm.