Dresser Box Ormolu Edges Velvet Interior Miniature Vatican St. Peter Basilica
Description: This is an antique rectangular dresser box having a hinged lid. The lid, which has brass mounts and ormolu border along its edge. It also has a miniature painting within an oval brass frame and covered in its center. The painted miniature represents an image of Saint Peter Basilica in Vatican City. The entire box is decorated with ormolu decoration along the edges of the top and the bottom. The lid is also equipped with a brass thumb piece extending out at the front of the lid. The interior of the box is lined with maroon colored velvet. The bottom of the box is covered with green felt. The box is clean inside and out and looks great. We believe the box was most likely purchased as a souvenir at the Vatican during the late part of the grand tour era. The piece is unmarked but was most likely made in Italy. A beautiful box in very good condition after being around for almost 200 years. A nice addition to any collection. Pleases carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain but was made sometime in the early to the mid 1800s.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania. We believe the piece was most likely made in Italy.
Size: The box measures ~5 1/2" by ~4 1/4" by ~2 3/8" and weighs almost 11.5 ounces.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: An interesting antique and highly decorated dresser box in very good condition, which would make a great addition to your collection.
Condition: The box is in very good condition with minor scratches the surface, the worst can be seen in the fifth photo. This black colored line appears to be a scratch that has blackened with time and maybe cleanable. The interior is clean and the lining is intact with no losses. The green felt on the bottom shows some wear and soiling, but nothing of true concern. The box is all original with no breaks or repairs. The miniature is intact with no losses and having vivid colors. The hinge for the lid is intact and works well. The exterior of the box is also clean and intact. Just a nice antique dresser box worthy of a spot in any collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.
