White Opaline Egg-Form Perfume Casket w/ Ormolu Mounts c. 1880 - 8¼"

Glowing in milky white opaline and enriched with gilt-bronze mounts, this French cave à parfums, likely Parisian and dating to the late 19th century, opens theatrically to reveal four slender scent bottles held in delicate pierced galleries. The egg-shaped shell lifts on articulated hinges beneath a cast acorn finial, while the foliate base, acanthus capitals, and leaf-tip borders bring graceful detail. Condition is good, the opaline bright and the gilding attractively preserved with light age rubbing; two of the interior flacons are currently sealed.

Opaline paired with fine ormolu was a hallmark of the Napoléon III and early Belle Époque boudoir, its jewel-like glow matched by the virtuosity of Parisian bronze workshops. Egg-form perfume caskets represented coveted curiosities of the era, prized for their mechanical opening and miniature glass treasures within. This example reflects that refined savoir-faire, with crisp chasing and airy openwork typical of luxury bronziers working for the grand retailers of the Palais-Royal and Boulevard des Italiens.

Striking whether displayed closed as a gleaming opaline egg or opened to reveal its quartet of delicate bottles, this piece invites admiration on a dressing table, mirrored tray, or within a curated vitrine. It harmonizes beautifully with Napoleon III, Belle Époque, and Hollywood Regency interiors. Set it on a console, bedside table, or library étagère, where the reflective opaline shell and gilded details can catch the light and lend a touch of intimate boudoir elegance.