This box is enough to make me want to start writing with a fountain pen—so lovely and transportive, and right in keeping with my obsession with 19th century penmanship! Mid 19th century I I believe, definitely French, and made of papier-mache lacquered black with gold, deep red and rose colored details. Three compartments inside for pencils, pens, and nibs, and a long piano hinge to the lid. Super.
8 7/8” x 2 1/4” x 1 3/16” t and in very good condition—structurally perfect, with lacquer in great shape, just light wear to the border decoration on the top.