Antique 19th century gilt bronze jewelry box. Features an oval shaped pietra dura plaque inset to the lid. The stone inlay in the form of a figural bouquet of flowers against a black marble ground, comprising of white lilies and green foliage, displaying vert de patricia and malachite, the center with a millefiori tesserae. Lilies being the symbol of the city of Florence. The box is adorned with intricate engraving and finely casted floral garlands. Resting on four ornate feet. The center of the box with a lock and opening to reveal a fabric lined interior. Signed Boissier Paris, for the renown confectioner. In overall good antique condition with general wear commensurate with age and use. Lacking a key. The pietra dura plaque having a small lack to the stem of one leaf, otherwise presents beautifully. Measures 6 1/2" c 4 3/8" x 3 3/4" height.
The story of Maison Boissier begins in 1827, when Béllissaire Boissier, the founder and chocolatier set up his first stall on the Boulevard des Capucines in Paris. His first shop was in Place de l’Etoile, now known as the Place Charles de Gaulle. Béllisaire’s incredible creations became a great success, quickly favored by the ladies of Parisian high society. Carriages would stop outside of his shops to allow Parisians to replenish the stock of their favorite chocolate treats. French romantic writer and politician Victor Hugo, French novelist, journalist, and playwright Emily Zola, and Alexandre Dumas, also a French novelist and playwright, were Boissier’s regular clients. M.Boissier commissioned French foundries to create incredible presentation caskets which were made using ormolu and bronze metals and were used to contain his most exotic chocolates.