Antique phenomenal sweet box from the 19th century

Confetti box from a French restaurant era, round, with a decoration on the lid depicting an interior scene showing a mother caring for her daughter in a cradle. Against a light blue background, the inscription A MA FILLE is visible. It is therefore a box used on birthdays or at least dedicated to offspring. The box is made entirely of cardboard, with two brass rings at the ends and printed, gold cardboard ribbons on the edges. The decoration is created using the verre fixé method, meaning it is an watercolor print preserved under glass. The condition is good, apart from a small chip at the glass edge.

These are valuable packaging for sugared almonds, sold as gifts or for special occasions. A characteristic feature of these packages is their decoration placed under glass, reflecting the changing styles and tastes of the respective 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 we now commonly call packaging, prioritizing 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 established in Saronno. In 1900, the SAIWA (Società Accomandita Industria Wafer Affini) was founded in Genoa, enabling the confectionery industry to spread across Italy and Europe.

Confectionery products were sold in wholesale quantities, but soon exclusive items were created for parties and celebrations; among these are Boite à Dragées (confetti boxes), which we present in this collection, featuring fixed verre decorations depicting romantic or rural scenes. Made of cardboard, they have a decorative edge with printed and gilded paper ribbon 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.

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

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. 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 transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Beautiful Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by significant influence and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also strongly references ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word barocco—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces designed to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively used 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 plinths, and bas-reliefs. It can certainly be said that these were quite specific products, but they offered many new possibilities, such as the construction of buffets 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 furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, taking inspiration from Italian or French creators. This is a manifestation of admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It is important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, 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 customer's perspective, because many fakes circulate on the market. Luxury Products brand provides a certificate confirming the product's compliance with the actual description and photo. We have art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world at your disposal.