An exceptional 19th-century French Napoleon III period bonbonnière crafted from deep amethyst hand-blown crystal and mounted with finely chiseled bronze fittings.
The main body features rich purple blown glass with subtle vertical ribbing that catches the light beautifully. The underside shows a hand-cut rough pontil base, serving as clear evidence of traditional 19th-century mouth-blown craftsmanship.
The glass vessel is encased in delicate gilt bronze mounts with detailed foliage scrolls, volutes, and rocaille cartouches. On either side, two sculpted dragon-form handles give the piece a commanding and sculptural presence on display. The removable glass lid is crowned with a brilliant faceted crystal finial knob.
This piece comes in outstanding antique condition. There are no chips, cracks, hairlines, or restorations to the crystal. The bronze mounts remain tight, sturdy, and well-detailed with a natural historical patina.