Dimensions (cm): 7 x 9.5 x 19.5

Year: 1905

Rectangular cigar box, lined in cedar wood with an adjustable compartment. Inscribed "T.E.F 1905".

Boulle is a technique whereby sheets of tortoiseshell (or turtleshell) and brass are cut through with a fret-saw to produce two designs, one in tortoiseshell, the other in brass. These sheets are then inlaid into a ground of the contrasting material. When brass is inlaid into a ground of tortoiseshell this is known as Premier Partie work, and, conversely, when tortoiseshell is inlaid into brass, we refer to this as Contre Partie, thus allowing pairs of objects to be made in matching designs, yet contrasting colours. Although the technique was not invented, or indeed used exclusively by him, it is now associated with the name of André-Charles Boulle (1642 – 1732), ébéniste to King Louis XIV, who used it extensively in his work. Following its initial popularity in early 18th century France, the technique was revived from about 1820 and was widely used thereafter in both England and France. In the first half of the 20th century, Boulle work of this type was retailed by Asprey and J.C. Vickery, so it is likely that this box is of English rather than French manufacture, revived from about 1820 and was wildely used thereafter.

Bar Code: 10314