Vintage Gold-Plated Art Nouveau Floral Trinket Box
Trinket Box / Jewelry Casket · Yellow gold plating; likely 14K to 18K gold wash over a non-precious base metal like pewter, spelter, or pot metal.
Purity: Gold-plated (EPBM or gold flash over white metal). Likely contains less than 0.1% gold by weight.
Type
Trinket Box / Jewelry Casket
Purity
Gold-plated (EPBM or gold flash over white metal). Likely contains less than 0.1% gold by weight.
Gold Type
Yellow gold plating; likely 14K to 18K gold wash over a non-precious base metal like pewter, spelter, or pot metal.
Weight
250 - 450 grams depending on base metal density (not solid gold).
Description
An ornate, rectangular trinket box featuring a decadent rose-and-leaf motif. This piece captures the romanticism of the Art Nouveau period with its flowing lines and dimensional floral lid. Originally intended as a sophisticated dresser accessory for rings and small keepsakes.
Key Features
High-relief rose finial on the lid, ornate scrollwork, cabriole legs, and a red or velvet-lined interior (typical of this model).
Color & Finish
Tarnished antique gold color with significant dark patina. The finish shows heavy wear, exposing the greyish base metal underneath.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in image. Might contain 'Japan', 'WB' (Weidlich Bros), or 'E.H.H' on bottom. Likely lacks a karat purity stamp as it is not solid gold.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 4 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 3.5 inches tall.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief (repoussé style) cast floral roses and foliage.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged lid; simple gravity closure without a locking mechanism.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features four integrated cabriole-style feet.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via casting (mold-made). Visible parting lines and soft detailing suggest a commercial-grade production rather than hand-chased goldsmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: uneven color, dark grey spots where plating has worn off (base metal exposure), and cast seam lines visible on the edges.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in Japan or USA (Antimony or White Metal works). Popular brands included Godinger or various mid-century giftware companies.
Era & Period
Art Nouveau Revival (Late Victorian style); likely Mid-20th Century (1950s-1970s) mass-market production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in affordable luxury giftware, where plated items allowed middle-class households to mimic the aesthetic of solid gold and silver aristocrat heirlooms.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss (brassing) exposing the base metal. Heavy oxidation/tarnish present. Hinge appears intact but surface integrity is compromised.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is based on decorative appeal as a vintage collectible; it has negligible gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive gold cleaners as they will strip the remaining plating. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid water and humidity to prevent further corrosion of the base metal.
Similar Items
Silver-plated versions of the same mold, or higher-end 'French Ormolu' bronze-gilt jewelry caskets which would be much heavier and more finely detailed.
Interesting Facts
These boxes were frequently sold as 'Antimony' ware in the mid-20th century, often given as bridesmaids' gifts or souvenirs.