Sweets box France 1800 with decoration on the lid

France 1800s candy box with a decoration on the lid depicting oriental figures on ivory. The box is made entirely of cardboard, with two brass rings on the ends and printed and gilded paper ribbons on the edges (the upper lid is missing a 5-centimeter ribbon, which can be seen in the gallery photos). The decoration is created using the verre fixé method, meaning it is an aquarelle print preserved under glass. France, early 19th century.

These are valuable packaging for sugar-coated 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 coincided with the growth 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, curled silk, and printed milk mimicking precious materials. 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 (fancy boxes for confetti), which we present in this collection. These boxes feature fixed verre décorations depicting romantic or rural scenes. Made of cardboard, they have edges 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.

Exceptional antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior design. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess a specific character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of 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 are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, notably the Biedermeier style. Early in this century, antique furniture included neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transitioned into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

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 from Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture is associated with Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles are also noteworthy. Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word barocco—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—refers to highly ornate furniture designed to radiate splendor and serve a luxurious role. Unique materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

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 significant 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 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 forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads – these are common sights 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 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 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 at your disposal art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.