Object Description
This is a superb quality French malachite and gold miniature dressing table box, 19th Century in date.
The hinged lid with an ornate gold mount and fitted with an interior mirror, the box with two small lidded compartments, also ideal as a pill box.
The lid is decorated with a fabulous gilt bronze ormolu acorn handle and it is raised on decorative ormolu claw feet.
The box has been carved from a solid block of malachite and has a decorative gold mount, the hallmarks indistinct.
Provenance:
The Estate of Mrs Annabelle Comery.
Condition:
In excellent condition, please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 3.5 x Width 6.5 x Depth 5
Dimensions in inches:
Height 1.4 x Width 2.6 x Depth 2.0
Malachite is an opaque, green banded mineral. It is believed to be a strong protector of children. It protects the wearer from accidents and protects travellers. Malachite has been used to aid success in business and protect against undesirable business associations. It is a stone of balance in relationships.
Malachite is always green, usually in banded tones varying from very dark green to a mellow green. Most malachite comes from Zaire, Chile and Australia.
Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used malachite for jewellery and ground it to use as eye shadow. It is used in amulets to protect against the evil eye. In the Middle Ages it was used to protect children from witches and other dangers.
Our reference: 09023