Vintage Art Nouveau Style Silver/Gold-Plated Trinket Box with Heraldic Crest
Trinket/Jewelry Box (Tableware Accessory) · White Gold appearance or Silver alloy with potential faint gold-wash interior (standard for the era).
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated (Vermeil) or Silver-Plated over base metal or sterling; gold content is minimal or secondary based on the visible cool/silvery patina.
Type
Trinket/Jewelry Box (Tableware Accessory)
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated (Vermeil) or Silver-Plated over base metal or sterling; gold content is minimal or secondary based on the visible cool/silvery patina.
Gold Type
White Gold appearance or Silver alloy with potential faint gold-wash interior (standard for the era).
Weight
Estimated 250 - 450 grams depending on whether the body is sterling or weighted base metal.
Description
An elegant, scalloped-edge trinket box featuring a centrally engraved coat of arms with a lion rampant. The lid displays fine gadrooning along the perimeter and sits atop a four-footed base designed with classical lion-paw motifs, exuding an air of old-world luxury.
Key Features
Hand-engraved heraldic lion crest, scalloped perimeter, and ornate lion-paw feet.
Color & Finish
High-polished cool silver/white gold tone with visible oxidation/tarnish patina; engraved center with gadrooned border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the underside or inner rim; likely to include Purity (e.g., .925 or EPNS), Maker's Mark, and potentially a Date Letter.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 5 to 6 inches wide, 3 to 4 inches deep, and 2.5 inches high including feet.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; primarily focuses on metalwork, engraving, and cast decorative elements.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged lid with a friction fit; no locking mechanism visible.
Chain & Links
N/A; structural features include four cast lion-paw (monopodium) feet attached to a repousse-accented base.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast feet, machine-turned scalloped base, and precision hand-engraving on the lid; seamless hinge integration.
Authentication Indicators
Weight distribution and tarnish patterns suggest a genuine silver or high-quality plated metal rather than modern aluminum; requires hallmark inspection for metal verification.
Origin & Maker
Likely British or Continental European (German/Italian) or American (Gorham/Reed & Barton style).
Era & Period
Vintage Art Nouveau / Hollywood Regency influence; featuring traditional heraldic motifs common in the early 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1950, based on the heraldic engraving style and the silhouette of the feet.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century desire for heirloom-style luxury goods in the domestic sphere; a staple of upper-class dressing tables.
Condition Notes
Very Good; presents consistent surface wear and oxidation (tarnish) which confirms age; no major dents or hinge breakage visible.
Value Estimate
Estimated $150 - $450 depending on metal composition (Plated vs Solid Silver) and maker identification.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a micro-fiber cloth and non-abrasive silver polish; avoid chemical dipping which can strip protective plating.
Similar Items
Sterling Silver jewelry caskets by Tiffany & Co. or silver-plated dresser boxes by Forbes Silver Co.
Interesting Facts
Items bearing a 'Lion Rampant' crest were traditionally associated with nobility or military families, symbolizing bravery and strength.