I have had this wonderful 19th century box in my box collection since 2018, purchased from a highly reputable dealer who has rare and beautiful pieces. She’s one of my favorites. I absolutely love it, but I must downsize. I’m hoping to find a new “mom” for it who will treasure as I have.

I only have part of my original paperwork, so I’m going to do my best to describe it on my own. I believe the wood is mahogany. I have some mahogany furniture and the grain and coloring is very similar. Most of the outside is painted a cream color with tiny rose swags all the way around at the base of the box and the lid. The finely sketched image of the Hotel, with travelers and people passing by, may be done directly on the wood or it could be a transfer process.

On the bottom is a small chip to the wood. There are also a few areas of missing cream paint, but in my opinion, it does not detract from the box’s display beauty. In the front is a small metal (looks like brass) push-button to open the lid.

The inside has a tray lined in purple velvet. At the back is a notch that you put your finger in (it may have had a velvet or satin tab to use) to pull up the tray. You would drape the watch chain through the notch and let the excess lay in the reserve underneath. Then you prop up the tray to show off the watch. Genius! The mahogany inside has a gorgeous color and patina.

The piece measures nearly 2 and 7/8 inches long; 2 and 4/8inches wide; and 1 and 3/8 inches high. I don’t have an exact date, but I estimate it’s approximately the 1870s, based on the ladies’ costumes, the style of the piece, and popularity of Grand Tours in Europe. I have displayed it in my smoke-free home away from direct sunlight in a glass cabinet. Price shown is what I paid.

Many thanks for looking!