19th Century Danbiere Cameo Trinket Box

Step back in time with this exquisite trinket box, a testament to the artistry of the late 19th century. Crafted by the renowned Parisian artist T.P. Danbiere, to showcase exciting new materials and techniques, this is no mere ‘trinket box’ but a real piece of history! Danbiere’s Art Nouveau work captures the essence of the period’s artistic movements, blending functionality with the elegance of high-relief sculpture.

Material note (important — please read):

Painted faux metal cameo top with a warm cherry-amber tone — described here as Bakelite-style / early resin-plastic for clarity. This piece has not been laboratory tested; it is offered as a vintage decorative cameo trinket box. Please note that “Bakelite” (a trade name often used loosely) was not patented until 1907 — the material and manufacturing style of earlier plastics (see below) mean this box is arguably more interesting as an example of pre-Bakelite resin technology.

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CONDITION:

The box is in fantastic condition with no chips or heavy scratches. There are some light scratches to the base. Please see pictures for details as this is the item you will receive.

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DETAILS:

• Renowned Artist: Signed/marked T.P. Danbiere, a Parisian artist celebrated for high-relief sculpture and cameo-style boxes. (See close-up of the base/mark in photos.)

• Artistic Pedigree: Offered as a late-19th century decorative box in the Art Nouveau style — a period when artisans were experimenting with new composite materials.

• Classical Charm: The cameo features a classical female figure, embodying the grace and beauty of its era.

• Intricate Details: Surrounded by delicately engraved grape motifs, adding depth and character to the design.

• Composition: Cherry-amber Bakelite-style / early resin-plastic cameo (material not laboratory-verified). This appears consistent with early resin technologies used before Bakelite’s 1907 patent.

• Dimensions: Oval base approx 5.7 cm x 4.6 cm. Height approx 4.5 cm total; cameo relief approx 1 cm.

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Why this is interesting? (or a short research note on early plastics!)

Early synthetic resins were deliberately coloured and polished to replicate the warmth and translucency of natural amber, which was highly prized but costly. A cherry-amber cameo of this type was therefore likely created to achieve that amber aesthetic using innovative industrial materials. This piece predates any ‘Bakelite’ attempts by almost 20 years and as such is a fine example of transitional decorative plastics, created to mimic the beauty warmth and elusive translucency of natural amber.

N.B:

Laboratory verification of exact composition — e.g. to distinguish amber / parkesine / celluloid / phenolic — has not been carried out; other examples of similar signed pieces from collectors sites and sales listings have been researched to present the most accurate description I can offer! If you have any questions, please reach out to me before you buy and I will be happy to help!

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This Danbiere box is both a keepsake and a story: a beautifully crafted object that also captures the dawn of decorative synthetic materials.

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Shipping & Packing

• Sent via Royal Mail tracked 48 service.

• Carefully packed with multiple layers of bubble wrap and cardboard box for protection

• Dispatched promptly (typically within 1–2 working days).

• Alternative international shipping available on request — accurate quotes provided.

• Combined shipping offered for multiple purchases.