A French candy box from the early 19th century

French candy box from the early 19th century, decorated on the lid with a gallant scene depicting a lady and a gentleman in 18th-century attire against a rural landscape. The round lid ornament is set within an octagonal frame. The box is entirely made of cardboard and features an octagonal shape with printed and gilded paper ribbons along the edges. The decoration is created using the verre églomisé technique, meaning it is an aquarelle print preserved under glass. The interior is lined with silver paper. France, 1800, in good condition.

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 period. Their popularity grew alongside the expansion and desire to establish a 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 ribbons, and printed milk patterns resembling jewelry. 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 established in Saronno. In 1900, the SAIWA (Società Accomandita Industria Wafer Affini) was founded in Genoa, which helped spread the confectionery industry across 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 we present in this collection, featuring fixed verre décorations depicting romantic or rural scenes. Made of cardboard, they have a decorative edge 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.

Exceptional antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess a specific character and soul. It is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of {traditional|classic} and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few of the most important can be distinguished. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during which the prevailing Biedermeier style was dominant. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles transitioned into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

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 strong resemblance to Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly representative pieces designed to exude splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique, selectively used materials were employed to further emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style has influenced today's classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the former era. An equally significant style is Renaissance. Which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and also left a substantial mark on the art of furniture making. The Renaissance style was quite heavy and bulky. Brown stains were used, as well as cornices, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. It can certainly be said that these were quite distinctive products, but they offered many new possibilities, such as the construction of sideboards or broadly speaking, chest furniture. Here, too, there was an interest in mythology and ancient times, so supports or legs took on animal shapes.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture made in this style, taking inspiration from Italian or French creators. This is a sign of admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that in each country, the production of furniture was perceived differently, so each style had its own distinct character. This is very important, especially when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of vintage antique furniture is originality. And this is ultimately crucial from the buyer's perspective, because many fakes circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product's compliance with the actual description and photos. We have art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world at your disposal.