Jewelry Box
Alphonse Giroux and Company, Paris (active ca. 1815-82)

During the 19th century, the medieval past became one of the most fertile sources of inspiration for artists and designers in every field. Always associated in the popular mind with luxurious materials, rituals, and ruins, after 1830 the Gothic style became the height of fashion across Europe and America.

Few objects contain more vivid references to medieval art and architecture than this jewelry box by Alphonse Giroux and Company of Paris (active ca. 1815-82). Made for a member of the wealthy Rothschild family (whose crest is engraved on the lid), the dome-top design with corner figures imitates French iron caskets from the 15th century. The firm of Giroux specialized in small luxury objects and furniture made with precious materials. This casket is remarkable for its elaborately engraved decoration, pierced steel strapwork and tracery, and fully carved ivory figures of kings and queens mounted below architectural canopies at each corner. It is is the largest of three similar caskets known to have been made by Giroux shortly before the firm closed in 1882. The interior is compartmented.

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