A beautiful late-19th-century French artist’s watercolour box, complete with its original lacquered black exterior, ornate gilt “Aquarelle” title, and richly grained interior.
Inside are several original watercolor cakes from Bourgeois Ainé, Paris, including embossed pigments such as Rose Carthame, Vert Clair, Brun Rousse, and Violet Extra. Several colours remain in their original glass pans, and two hand-blown glass water cups and sliding compartments for brushes and tools.
This set would have been owned by a travelling painter or art student in the Belle Époque, a time when French colourmen were admired for producing some of the finest pigments in Europe. A rare and elegant survival, perfect for display in a studio, library, or creative space.
Details
- Origin: France
- Date: c. 1890–1910
- Materials: Lacquered wood, original paper labels, brass hardware, hand-blown glass
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Features:
- Ornate gilt “Aquarelle” lid
- Multiple original labelled French pans (Bleu de Prusse, Vert Clair, Rose Carthame, etc.)
- Two original glass water cups
- Sliding lower tray for tools
- Faux-mahogany interior finish typical of late-19th-century French artists’ boxes
- Condition: Light wear consistent with age; some pans worn or partially used; overall excellent presentation.