Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
The top is inlaid with the words Repondue and A Repondre (Answered and Unanswered). There is a central polished brass finial to the centre of the box . The box comes complete with a working key and once opened reveals the original shaped central divider.
The underside is so lucky to retain it's original finish with the original label, quite wonderful.
Alphonse Giroux and Company, famous curiosity and luxury goods shop was situated at No. 7 rue du Coq-Saint-Honoré and in business from the time of the Consulate until the end of the Second Empire.
The company was founded by François-Simon-Alphonse and continued in 1838 by his two sons, Alphonse-Gustave (1810 - 1886) and André (1801 - 1879).
The father became a close associate of the royal family and specialised in the manufacture of refined items for gifts. It was Alphonse-Gustave, however, who really expanded the activities of the firm as is testified by the report of the jury at the 1839 Products of Industry Exhibition awarding him another silver medal.
After buying a writing desk at the 1855 Universal Exhibition Napoleon III bought several other pieces of furniture, candelabras and clocks from Giroux for the Compiègne Palace. In 1857, Alphonse Giroux transferred his shop to No. 43, boulevard des Capucines where he continued to do business until 1867, when he ceded the company to Duvinage and Harinkouck.
A magical box in excellent condition, measuring 4 5/8" x 4 3/4" x 5 1/4" tall or 5 1/2" tall to top of finial.
Item ID: 35423
FREE Worldwide Registered Airmail Directly from London, England
Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1850s.
A quality online collection of fine english antique smalls with free worldwide shipping from london, england
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Puckerings Profile Page
Exquisite Antique French Letter Box by Alphonse Giroux, Paris C.1850
