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DECO FANTASIES
GOLD BOXES
Gold boxes date back to the tradition of the “pomander” small aromatic spheres in the shape of apples and “vinaigrettes”, boxes for the most part in silver for female use, both used for holding perfume. The real spread of “gold boxes” began in Europe in the 18th century, when it became socially popular, with the main function of “tabatière” or snuff box, due to the widespread use of chewing tobacco. First, they were made of carved wood, ivory and iron, later in silver and gold often coated in bright-coloured enamels. In some cases, the boxes were made of tortoise shell, rock crystal or other hardstones and semi-precious stones. The best-known models with meaningful names include: the “boîte-à-portrait”, the “boîte-à-mouches”, the “bonbonnières”, the “carnet-de-bals”, the “boxes for sealing wax”, and many more.
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In alto: cofanetto in argento dorato e smalto pittorico. Maria Semenova, Mosca, 1899-1908. Sopra: portasigarette (fronte e retro) in argento dorato e smalto cloisonné. Khlebnikov, Mosca, 1908-1917.
Top: a silver-gilt closionné and pictorial enamel casket. Maria Semenova, Moscow, 1899-1908. Above: a silver-gilt and cloisonné enamel cigarette case (back and front). Khlebnikov, Moscow, 1908-1917.