Antique 19th century French Louis XV style hinged jewelry casket. The box is of casted bronze or brass with serpentine shaping to the body, topped by a domed lid and flanked by a pair of intricate handles. Resting on four feet. Thick and heavy, with spectacular casting richly decorated in Louis XV Rococo styling. Patterned in an all-over relief comprising of opulent scrolling foliage, rocailles, florals, scalloped seashells and a beaded border encircling the box. Having a lock to the front, lacking a key. Topped by a handle casted in the form of a pair of winged cherubs holding a floral garland. Further embellished with casted appliques allegorizing Spring and music. Featuring vignettes of musical instruments including bagpipes, lute and tambourine, with garden tools, hats, flowers and trailing ribbon. Inset with four beautifully hand painted Sevres style porcelain medallions, each with Celeste blue grounds and gilt accents. Two medallions feature various colorful flowers and two depict winged cherubs against a sky background. The lid opens with a sturdy hinge, revealing a sage green colored fabric lining the interior. Measures 9 3/8" (including handles) x 6 3/4", stands 6 3/4" tall.
Good condition with wear, patina and discoloration to the metal commensurate with age. Wear to the gilding on the porcelain medallions, most noticeably at the lid. One cherub medallion with tight cracks as shown. Interior lining is a contemporary replacement. For accuracy, the box does not sit evening on the table top.