Nécessaire à senteurs en vernis Martin - Paris, Louis XV period, circa 1750.

Interesting Louis XV period perfume box in red Martin varnish speckled with black tortoiseshell, decorated with hand-painted gilded chinoiseries on all sides: stylized flowers, branches, pagoda architecture, figures in oriental costume. The lid and front are adorned with a large central scene of trees with a depth effect.

This type of lacquer, typically French, was developed by the Martin brothers in the 18th century, in response to the vogue for Far Eastern lacquers. Obtained by applying thin layers of tinted natural resins, Martin varnish is distinguished by its depth, brilliance and painted decorations, sometimes inspired by the Chinese imagination, as here.

The original hardware is cut and chiselled brass. The lock works perfectly, with its original key.

The interior, entirely sheathed in its original blue moiré fabric and trimmed with blue and silver braid, retains its antique mercury mirror, mounted in its textile frame. The lid is held open by an original brass compass.

The case contains four cut-crystal bottles with silver screw caps and retaining chains, as well as a small silver funnel. Two compartments remain empty, probably intended for a small silver goblet and cup, now missing.

The case frame is made of sycamore.

In the 18th century, these so-called "scent kits" were highly prized by high society ladies. They testify to the refinement of French decorative arts under Louis XV. Martin varnish, a technique invented to imitate oriental lacquers, is beautifully executed here in a deep mottled red, enriched with gold leaf decoration. This type of luxury object was generally made in Paris, in workshops specialized in tabletterie, sheathing and gilding.

Dimensions :
Width: 20 cm
Depth: 19 cm
Height: 16 cm

Good overall condition, wear to Martin varnish
Alterations to the mercury mirror.
Slight wear to the slightly faded braid, without detracting from the overall elegance.
Two original accessories missing.
Old wormholes, now treated and stabilized.
Small later feet.

Ref: SFBYH1KWL6