French Straw Work Marriage Valentine Box, 18th C

18th C French Straw Work  Valentine or Marriage box decorated in straw work and colored scraps pasted onto paper. The straw is ued in order to maximize the quality of the light reflection to created a subtle checkerboard type pattern. When opened the box bursts into color with pink and gold, . The lid has the design of 3 roses the symbol of love  and comes off to reveal a mirror on the underside. The next section is decorated with antique French scraps of 18th C style putti with a glass covering. French adages of Love and Romance are added. Underneath that section are further prints under glass . The bottom section has 2 boxes with original ribbon pulls, a center thimble box and a cylindrical needle case. 2 Covered pin cushions are at the sides. Underneath are 2 drawers which pull out with similar prints.

The color is phenomenal inside and out. Most are faded and deteriorating but this is so well taken care of. A very cherished piece. Complete and only flaw I see is a small triangle of missing straw on one of the bottom drawers. You might never see such a box again. Highly prized among Box Collectors.

A very similar box is on page 120 of the Book Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies and Society1700-1880.Their value is $3500. and by looks this box is even in better condition.