19th Century French Napoleon III Ebonized Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Box with Hand-Painted Porcelain Plaque – Round Top Find

Discovered while sourcing in Round Top, this elegant 19th-century French Napoleon III box captures the refined glamour of the Second Empire. Crafted of ebonized wood, the lid is richly adorned with engraved mother-of-pearl inlay and centered with a romantic hand-painted porcelain medallion plaque, all framed by delicate gilt trim.

Opening the lid reveals a vibrant raspberry silk-lined interior, creating a luxurious jewel-box presentation once used to store treasured letters, jewelry, or keepsakes in a Parisian salon. The deep black ebonized finish, shimmering inlay, and porcelain plaque create the kind of layered decorative richness that defined Napoleon III decorative arts in the mid-19th century.

The box is raised on small gilt feet, giving it an elegant presence and highlighting the fine metal detailing that surrounds the base. Pieces like this were designed not only for function but as beautiful objects within the home—perfect on a desk, dressing table, or styled among antique books and treasured objects.

A sophisticated and highly decorative example of French Second Empire craftsmanship, and a wonderful addition to any collected interior.

Details:

• France, Napoleon III period, 19th century (circa 1850–1870)

• Ebonized wood case

• Engraved mother-of-pearl inlay

• Hand-painted porcelain medallion plaque

• Gilt metal trim and escutcheon

• Raised on small gilt feet

• Raspberry silk-lined interior

Measurements:

11” W × 9.5” D × 3.75” H

Note:

Comparable French Napoleon III boxes with porcelain plaques and mother-of-pearl inlay frequently retail from $1,400+ in galleries and antique markets. One of the perks of spending years sourcing in Round Top is building relationships with fantastic vendors who occasionally pass along a special deal—allowing me to offer treasures like this here at a far better price.

$997 INCLUDES INSURED SHIPPING in the continental US.Also available for pickup at our Liberty Hill, TX showroom just north of Austin.

🩷Vintage and antique items have some wear associated with years of age and use which only adds to their overall charm. Please see all the pics as they are considered part of the description.

🚚Hawaii and Alaska residents, please contact me for a shipping quote🚚

🛍️All Sales As-Is and Final. We don’t accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations🛍️