This charming jewellery casket is by Auguste Nicholas Cain, one of the leading Animalier sculptors active in France during the 19th Century. The patinated bronze casket is cast with profuse decoration: sprays of woodland foliage and berry laden twigs predominate, while the front and reverse feature recessed relief sculptures of hares and other game. The casket is supported by naturalistically rendered feet and is mounted to the sides with twin branch-form handles. The hinged lid, which opens to reveal a velvet lined interior, is surmounted by a beautifully cast and patinated pheasant.