19th century tea box decorated with mother of pearl, silver threads and ivory

Tea Caddy Regency Tortoise box decorated with mother-of-pearl floral inlays, silver threads, and internal profiles in ivory color.

An antique box with an English lid covered with tortoiseshell, interior divided into two mahogany compartments, also with tortoiseshell lids and ivory-colored sockets. This elegant tortoiseshell piqué box, a technique used for material processing, features a slightly rounded front, richly inlaid with floral elements made of engraved mother-of-pearl and silver threads, with minimal imperfections. 

The internal edges are in ivory color. The lid has two slanted flaps and is lined inside with red velvet. The box is of English origin, from the Regency period, circa 1820. 

The condition is good, consistent with its age and some old restorations visible on the back, as shown in the attached photographs. The original lock, brass plaque, and no key. 

The art of tortoise shell processing, which developed in Naples in the early 18th century, spread throughout Europe. It appears that the Neapolitan jeweler and craftsman Laurentini invented the piqué technique, which was then widely used in France and England; the process involves softening the tortoise shell by immersing it in boiling water and oil, then pressing its surface with silver threads, mother-of-pearl tiles, or other precious materials.

Elegant antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Currently, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that have a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.  

Several key styles stand out among antique furniture. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during the reign of the Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by strong references to Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Notable and interesting are antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. Next is Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly ornate, luxurious pieces designed to dazzle and serve as symbols of opulence. Materials were chosen selectively to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can see how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which often resembles the historical period. An important style is also Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often finished with brown stains, featuring cornices, strong bases, and relief carvings. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient themes were also popular, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Many global brands now reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, reflecting admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, giving each style its unique character. This is especially important when searching for an elegant antique that suits your interior.