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 with an image depicting an elegantly dressed couple standing in a garden with a balustrade on the left and stairs on the right, set against architectural background. The scene is framed by an ivory-colored border with minimal paint loss, connected to the scene by a gold edging. 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 establish a presence in confectionery markets, which were rapidly developing at the time. Interestingly, confectionery production has always paid consistent attention to what we today call packaging, focusing primarily on its value even before its contents. This is why decorations, gilding, twisted silk ribbons, and printed milk patterns resembling jewelry were used. Here are some national names that capture the essence of this phenomenon: in Turin, the kingdom of chocolate, Caffarel Prochet was born in 1826, and Leone in 1878. In 1888, the Lazzaroni & Figli company was founded in Saronno. In 1900, the SAIWA (Società Accomandita Industria Wafers Affini) was established in Genoa, which helped the confectionery industry spread across Italy and Europe.

Confectionery products were sold wholesale, but soon exclusive items were created for parties 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 late 18th to early 19th century. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, which imposed a significant resemblance and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Interesting and noteworthy are all 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 play 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-making. Renaissance style was quite heavy and bulky, using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These were quite distinctive products but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest 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 production differently, so each style had its own character in each nation. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique piece suitable for your interior.