A dragee box, early 19th century, with a decoration on the lid depicting an elegantly dressed couple

Box for dragees, early 19th century, decorated on the lid depicting an elegantly dressed couple standing in a garden with a balustrade on the left and stairs on the right, against a backdrop of architecture. The scene is framed by an ivory-colored border with minimal paint loss, connected to the scene by a gold outline. The box is entirely made of cardboard, with two brass rings at the ends and printed, gold cardboard ribbons on the edges. The decoration is created using the « fixé sous verre » technique, meaning it is an aquarelle print preserved under glass. France, early 19th century.

These are valuable packaging for sugared almonds, sold as gifts or for special occasions. A characteristic feature of these packages is their glass-encased decoration, reflecting the changing styles and tastes of the era. Their popularity grew alongside the expansion and desire to mark presence in confectionery markets, which were rapidly developing at the time. Interestingly, in confectionery production, there has always been a consistent focus on what is now commonly called packaging, prioritizing the value of the packaging itself even before its contents. This is evident in the use of ornaments, gilding, twisted silk, and printed milk imitating precious stones. Here are some national names that capture the essence of this phenomenon: in Turin, the kingdom of chocolate, in 1826 Caffarel Prochet was born, and in 1878 Leone. In 1888, the Lazzaroni & Figli company was established in Saronno. In 1900, the SAIWA (Società Accomandita Industria Wafers Affini) was founded in Genoa, which helped the confectionery industry spread throughout Italy and Europe.

Confectionery products were sold wholesale, but soon exclusive items were created for events and celebrations; among these are Boite à Dragées (confetti boxes), which are featured in this collection, with fixed decorations of the sous verre type depicting romantic or rural scenes. Made of cardboard, they have a border decorated with printed and gilded paper ribbons with Greek or leafy motifs; the interior can be divided into compartments. All were produced in France between the late 18th century and the early decades of the 19th century.

Original Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a style heavily inspired by Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws strongly from ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are antique products in Rococo style and Louis XV. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese « barocco »—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and serve a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past era. 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 massive, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. They also reflected an interest in mythology and ancient times, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French creators, demonstrating admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that each country perceived furniture making differently, so each style had its unique character. This is especially important when seeking a luxurious antique piece suitable for your interior.