Antique phenomenal sweet box from the 19th century

Confetti box from the period of a French restaurant, round, with a decoration on the lid depicting an interior scene showing a mother caring for her daughter in a cradle. On 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 aquarelle print preserved under glass. The condition is good, except for a small chip at the edge of the glass.

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 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 why decorations, gilding, twisted silk, and printed milk imitations of 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, which helped spread the confectionery industry 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 we present in this collection, featuring fixed decorations like verre sous verre scenes depicting romantic or rural themes. Made of cardboard, they have a decorated 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.

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 have a specific character and soul. This is 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 notable. 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.

Stunning Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by significant influences from 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, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to shine with 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 has influenced modern classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the former era. An equally significant style is Renaissance. Flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, it also left a profound mark on the art of furniture making. Renaissance style was quite heavy and bulky. Brown stains were used, along with cornices, sturdy plinths, and reliefs. It can certainly be said that these were quite distinctive products, but they also offered many new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards or broadly speaking, chest furniture. Here, too, there was an interest in mythology and ancient times, so supports or legs often took animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture made in this style, drawing inspiration from Italian or French creators. This reflects 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 distinct character. This is especially important when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The most important aspect of vintage antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial from the customer's perspective, as many counterfeit products circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides a certificate confirming the product's compliance with its actual description and photo. We have appraisers, art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world at your disposal.