Late nineteenth century Viennese enamel and silver box. c. 1890.

A late nineteenth century Viennese enamel and silver box. c. 1890.

This fine enamelled box is of the highest quality and was made in Vienna in the latter part of the nineteenth century. Viennese enamel has always retained its reputation for being some of the best produced in the world and this box illustrates perfectly how that reputation was aquired. The top of the box is illustrated in the manner of Watteau and shows a young Gallant and his Lady in a rural setting, she looking up from a book at the sound of his playing the flute to her. The rural theme is carried around the outer edge of the box, a continuous landscape showing trees and cottages and the base shows an old mill by a pond. The inside of the box has its original bright gilding and the lid is supported by a cased hinge.

This Viennese enamel and silver box is of outstanding quality and is 5.5 cm in diameter. It stands 2.7 cm high. (Measurements approximate). It is in excellent condition, showing only light wear appropriate to its age and substance. It has no damage and no restoration.