Fantastic antique French gilt bronze jewelry casket surmounted with an enamel on copper portrait plaque. The casket is decorated in ornate base relief, patterned with an intricate floral frieze, the lid with a gadrooned and beaded edge. Surmounted with a kiln-fired enamel on convex copper plaque. The portrait features a fantastic group of cavaliers situated around a table in discussion over a good game of chess, drinking, smoking and making merry in a delightful tavern interior. Finely detailed throughout, with their period costumes vibrant against the darkness of the smoky tavern. A layer of enamel applied over foil creates this gorgeous shimmering effect, in this case to create the look of crushed velvet in their clothing. Signed at the lower left. The box retains a working lock and key, opening to a velvet lined interior. Resting on four feet. In overall good condition, some patina/discoloration to the gilt bronze commensurate with age. No chips or cracks or repairs to the exquisite enamel plaque. There is a faint flaw in the enamel located about the 6 o'clock area. This appears to have been done in the making as it cannot be felt, visible in the last picture and indicated by a blue arrow. Measures 8 1/8" x 6 1/4" and stands 2 3/4" tall.