Top-quality craftsmanship on this antique ornate repousse Victorian style footed Jewel Casket Jewelry Box by Jennings Brothers of Bridgeport, CT.
The repousse decoration on the top of this Victorian era Jewel Casket Jewelry Box depicts a park scene with a courting couple on a bench, a woman and a goat and two men with musical instruments.
Although quite detailed, the level is somewhat softened and there is no silver plate loss from the lid design, leading me to believe that this Jewel Casket jewelry box may have been silver replated at one time. All four sides of the Victorian silver plate antique Jewel Casket Jewelry Box feature columns and swags and other detailed ornamentation.
The four feet of this footed jewel casket jewelry box feature a beaded design. There is a soft silverplate patina along all four sides, and some areas of silverplate wear The full piano style hinge in the back looks original and opens like new with no signs of repair or of being sprung.
The inside of the lid and of the body of the Jewel Casket Jewelry Box is lined with a dark blue low pile velvet. I believe that the fabric lining is original due to the worn pile, discoloration and accumulation of age-related dust noted, typical of an antique piece. Due to the use of a flash, the lining appears as a brighter blue and cleaner than in actuality.
Silver and silverplate boudoir accessories became very popular during the late 19th century. Inexpensive manufacturing techniques provided elaborate and valuable-looking objects, including jewelry boxes. Collecting silver and silverplate jewelry boxes or jewel boxes has reached a near-fevered pitch, as there are so many styles to choose from to express one's personal preferences.
Overall, this ornate antique Victorian Silverplate Jewel Casket Jewelry Box is in extremely good condition for its age. The new owner may wish to have the blue velvet lining fabric replaced by a silversmith.
Touch marked on the base with J.B. the hallmark of the Jennings Brothers of Bridgeport, Connecticut. The Antique Jewel Casket Jewelry Box measures 3-3/4" by 2-1/2", is 2-1/2" high and weighs 10-1/2 ounces - quite heavy for its size!
Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company (Jennings Bro's. Mfg. Co.) were makers of silverplated toilet ware, crafting objects such as shaving stands, shaving sets, casseroles, table holloware, clocks, lamps and Sheffield reproductions. The Trademark "J.B." was used in 1891 on their silver plate novelties. You can read more about the history of the Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company here.
#A641 - Antique Victorian Silver JENNINGS BROS. Footed Silverplate Jewel Casket Jewelry Box
$90.00
