Enamel Pill Box Appraisal

Cloisonné Enameled Metal Pill Box

This is a small, rectangular or square-shaped pill box, likely crafted from a base metal such as brass or a mixed alloy, finished with a golden or gilded tone. The most prominent feature is the lid, which showcases a white enamel background adorned with a cloisonné design. The intricate cloisonné work depicts what appears to be a butterfly with turquoise-blue wings on the upper left, alongside delicate floral or foliage motifs in shades of maroon/deep red, green, and possibly silver or a similar light metallic color. The individual cells of the cloisonné are outlined in a thin network of metal wires, characteristic of this enameling technique, which contain the colored enamel pastes. The edges of the lid feature a raised golden border, framing the enameled panel. The body of the box is simple and unadorned, retaining the golden-toned metallic finish. A small, circular metallic tab or catch is visible on the front edge of the box, indicating a hinged lid mechanism for secure closure. The overall condition appears good with some minor surface wear consistent with age and handling, including slight tarnishing or scuffs on the metallic surfaces. There are no obvious signs of significant damage like chips or cracks in the enamel. The style suggests it could be an item from the mid-20th century or later, possibly an import, given the widespread popularity of cloisonné in Asian-inspired designs. The craftsmanship, though difficult to assess fully from the image, appears to be of decent quality, exhibiting careful application of enamel and wirework.