Vintage Repoussé Silver Plated Trinket and Pill Box Pair
Hollowware (Vanity Set / Decorative Object - Trinket Box) · Unknown Continental European or American Silverplate Manufacturer
Pattern: Traditional Rococo Revival Repoussé Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Vanity Set / Decorative Object - Trinket Box)
Maker
Unknown Continental European or American Silverplate Manufacturer
Material
Silver Plated Base Metal (likely Britannia metal or brass core with silver electroplate)
Dimensions
Estimated small scale: Rectangular box approx. 4x3 inches, oval box approx. 2.5x1.5 inches; weights likely under 200 grams combined
Description
A charming pair of vintage silver plated trinket boxes featuring ornate repoussé work. The larger rectangular box displays a figural courting scene on the lid surrounded by textured stippling, while the smaller oval box exhibits dense floral scrollwork. Both rest on delicate cast cabriole legs with continuous floral scrolling along the side panels.
Key Features
Contrasting rectangular and oval forms, high-relief figural and floral repoussé, miniature cabriole legs
Material & Composition
Silver Plated Base Metal (likely Britannia metal or brass core with silver electroplate)
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and highlighted mirror polish with heavy repoussé and chased floral, scroll, and figural motifs in a Rococo Revival style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in image; likely contains EPNS or maker stamps on the interior rim or base
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast components with soldered decorative mounts and attached miniature cabriole legs
Functional Features
Hinged lids with snug closures, intended for storing small trinkets, stamps, or pills
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; access via hinged lids with thumb-rests formed by the decorative borders
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of stamped sheet metal bodies with applied cast feet and rims; neat solder joints and clear relief work typical of mid-century decorative manufacturing
Authentication Indicators
Surface finish and cast foot attachments are typical of mid-century souvenir and vanity novelties rather than antique hand-forged pieces
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European (such as Germany or Italy) or American mass-production novelty silverplate
Era & Period
Mid to Late 20th Century Revival (imitative of 19th-century Victorian/Edwardian vanity items)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980
Cultural Significance
Reflects the enduring consumer appeal of romantic, historical revival motifs in domestic decorative arts
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with expected minor surface tarnish and light oxidation highlighting the details; plating is intact with no major base metal show-through visible
Value Estimate
30 to 75 USD for the pair, depending on maker marks and exact metal composition
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild silver polish, avoiding excessive rubbing to preserve the darkened antique finish in the recesses
Similar Pieces
Similar vanity and trinket boxes produced by Wilcox Silver Plate Co., Wm. Rogers, or various European novelty silversmiths
Interesting Facts
Such boxes were immensely popular as dressing table accessories and tourist souvenirs throughout the mid-20th century