French Porcelain Hand-Painted Pill or Trinket Box
Antique Porcelain and Decorative Arts

French Porcelain Hand-Painted Pill or Trinket Box

This is a small, oval-shaped porcelain trinket box featuring an elegant hand-painted design. The piece measures 6cm in length and 4.2cm in width, weighing 33 grams. The decorative top is of fine white porcelain, showcasing a cobalt blue trellis or crisscross motif that spans the entire domed lid. Within each diamond-shaped lattice section, there are delicate, hand-painted floral sprigs in shades of primary yellow, burnt orange, and cornflower blue, accented with chartreuse green leaves. At each intersection of the blue trellis, there is a small four-pointed gold-gilt star or cross, which appears slightly worn, consistent with age. Many of the paint strokes exhibit textural variance, indicating a hand-applied technique rather than a transfer print. The lid is encased in a dark, patinated metal frame—likely brass or copper alloy—which has oxidized to a deep, casi-black hue. The visible hinge and thumbpiece suggest a sturdy construction popular in 19th-century or early 20th-century French provincial decorative arts. The overall condition appears excellent for its age, with no visible cracks or chips in the porcelain, though the metal mounting shows a heavy, authentic patina. The craftsmanship reflects the classic Limoges style of miniature porcelain goods intended for Victorian or Edwardian vanity tables.

Estimated Value

$100.00 - $150.00 USD

Basic Information

Category

Antique Porcelain and Decorative Arts

Appraised On

May 10, 2026

Estimated Value

$100.00 - $150.00 USD

Additional Details Provided By Owner

User Provided Information

Bought in FRANCE: Bordeaux French Porcelain container (pill or trinket), hand painted floral with crisscross design. L 6cm W 4.2cm Weight 33gms Paid 70€ = $112AUD

Item Description

This is a small, oval-shaped porcelain trinket box featuring an elegant hand-painted design. The piece measures 6cm in length and 4.2cm in width, weighing 33 grams. The decorative top is of fine white porcelain, showcasing a cobalt blue trellis or crisscross motif that spans the entire domed lid. Within each diamond-shaped lattice section, there are delicate, hand-painted floral sprigs in shades of primary yellow, burnt orange, and cornflower blue, accented with chartreuse green leaves. At each intersection of the blue trellis, there is a small four-pointed gold-gilt star or cross, which appears slightly worn, consistent with age. Many of the paint strokes exhibit textural variance, indicating a hand-applied technique rather than a transfer print. The lid is encased in a dark, patinated metal frame—likely brass or copper alloy—which has oxidized to a deep, casi-black hue. The visible hinge and thumbpiece suggest a sturdy construction popular in 19th-century or early 20th-century French provincial decorative arts. The overall condition appears excellent for its age, with no visible cracks or chips in the porcelain, though the metal mounting shows a heavy, authentic patina. The craftsmanship reflects the classic Limoges style of miniature porcelain goods intended for Victorian or Edwardian vanity tables.

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