Vintage mother-of-pearl hand-painted pill box, round oriental scene, antique style

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique pill box features a round lid adorned with a hand-painted scene, showcasing a group of figures in traditional attire within a stylized vegetal setting. The entire decoration is rendered on a pearlescent-looking surface, as indicated by the keywords. The painting depicts several figures, some standing and others seated, moving within a lively and detailed landscape, with a naive perspective typical of Eastern or Persian iconography. The dominant colors observed are soft tones: blue, green, red, yellow, and brown, lending the object a delicate and antiquated atmosphere.

The box is circular in shape, with a thick, slightly transparent edge, suggesting an antique finish. The lid shows some visible signs of wear, notably chips and missing parts on the border, as well as small areas of alteration to the pictorial layer, testifying to its age and authenticity. The lid's decoration immediately draws the eye with its figurative style and meticulous details, each character individualized by their posture and costume.

The contrast between the central scene and the light pearlescent background highlights the finesse of the artisanal work. No text, signature, or mark is visible on the photographed side. The box appears designed to fit easily in hand or in a bag, consistent with the traditional use of pill boxes or pillboxes, highly sought after for their practicality and decorative aesthetic.

The outer surface reveals a slight patina, a sign of prior use, without detracting from the legibility of the motif. The decoration evokes an orientalist style, popular in European or Middle Eastern craftsmanship in the late 19th or early 20th century, though precise dating is not possible in the absence of other visible clues.

Its compact size and hand-painted finish make it a charming piece for storing small precious objects, decorating a dressing table, or adorning a desk.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Presence of wear, chips, and missing parts visible on the border and painted surface. The patina and age marks contribute to the authenticity of the piece.

Did you know? Hand-decorated mother-of-pearl pillboxes were particularly prized in Europe and the Middle East around the turn of the 20th century. They were used to carry medicines or small precious objects, while showcasing local craftsmanship, often inspired by scenes of daily life or popular legends.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by a professional seller specializing in antique and decorative objects.

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