Rare Antique 19th c. French 5 3/8″ Jewelry Box, Russian Malachite Panels, Working Lock, Key

Now and then we see these in museum collections – a dore bronze casket with slabs of fine Russian malachite in reveals. All side panels are backed in a single thick cut malachite slab and the top is one or more slabs (I didn’t remove the old original crimson velvet lining in order to examine from back). Created last half of 1800s, a heavy box for its size, between the dore bronze casing and the semiprecious stones. From feel of it, the stone slabs must be approximately 1/4″ thick. Finding one available to private collectors becomes more and more difficult, and typically are only small boxes, usually incomplete or damaged. This one was a thrill to find! You know me – I have a built-in radar for rarity and for gorgeous old treasures. It has the original silk nap velvet within, unstained and in very nice condition for age. A large casket (coffret) like this merits attention and a few heart palpitations! Full measurements noted on photos.

Very good to excellent, age and type considered. Large in size, as these go, and all side panel slabs of malachite are excellent. The large one or perhaps smaller panels comprising the lid show an old break. I see 3 lines across it (see photos), but it’s been properly restored so unless you’re just looking for it, it’s not distracting. The natural swirls of the emerald malachite stone is mesmerizing. This would have been created between c.1860-90, from my museum/research and experience. I’ve seen a larger one, evidently by the same maker, in the V&A, London.