Antique Baccarat cut-crystal and ormolu casket

This charming box was likely used to hold jewellery, but is a superb decorative ware in its own right. The renowned maker Baccarat (French, 1764) has been making extraordinary glassware pieces like this casket for the last 250 years. The main body of the casket is crafted from faceted cut-crystal, which is cut with repeating octagonal and diamond geometric motifs.

Alongside the reflective crystal body are several ormolu mounts which add to the piece’s delicate design. The rim of the hinged lid and the upper rim of the main body are both adorned with a foliate ormolu band, which meet in impressive symmetry when the box is closed. The casket stands atop a cove edge base, which is engraved with another foliate band. The entire composition sits on top of four paw feet, which protrude from each corner.

In the centre of the box is an ornate key, which is surmounted by a Rococo-style scallop shell. The key sits inside an ormolu escutcheon that features a pair of winged figureheads, rendered with remarkable detail even on a minute scale.

Displaying expert craftsmanship, this exceptional antique is at once both a functional object and a beautiful decorative ware.