Some objects preserve not only their original purpose, but the emotions attached to them. This hand-painted floral Art Nouveau glove box dates to the Belle Époque era, a period when beautifully crafted domestic objects transformed everyday rituals into moments of elegance, and often functioned as souvenir gifts as well. Sourced in Valencia, this signed box was designed to store and protect gloves, with its original blue satin lining and gently sloped padded interior created to preserve the shape of delicate accessories.
The exterior is crafted from warm honey-toned fruitwood, with a simpler pine base beneath—an intentional construction choice that reflects the balance between craftsmanship and accessibility found in many souvenir and decorative objects of the period. The recessed front lock and hand-painted floral decoration add beauty and interest to an object created for gifting and personal use within the home.
The painted Forget-Me-Not flowers carry a particularly meaningful symbolism. In Victorian floriography, these small blue blossoms represented remembrance, enduring affection, and faithfulness, making them a fitting motif for an intimate keepsake object.
Signed "Salcé," a surname of Basque origin, this box preserves the work of an individual maker while offering a glimpse into the domestic life and sentimental objects of turn-of-the-century Europe.
Before beginning its next chapter, this glove box received careful stabilization. The loose wooden walls and corresponding sections of satin were gently secured using reversible hide glue, a traditional adhesive valued in conservation practices because it respects original materials and allows for future treatment if needed. The goal was not to erase the marks of age, but to ensure the box could continue to be appreciated and used.
Details
Artist/Maker: Signed "Salcé"
Origin: Valencia, Spain
Date: ca. 1895–1915
Period: Belle Époque / Art Nouveau
Materials: Fruitwood exterior, pine base, blue satin lining, painted decoration, recessed metal lock
Measurements: 9.5 x 4 x 2.75 inches
Care
This antique box has been gently cleaned and stabilized while preserving its original materials and aged character. Open and close carefully while supporting the body of the box. Avoid exposure to excessive humidity, direct sunlight, or harsh cleaning products.
Condition
This piece is in good antique condition with expected wear consistent with its age and use. The wooden structure has been stabilized, though minor age-related movement and surface variations remain visible. The original blue satin lining shows appropriate signs of age while retaining its beauty and character.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description.
Some objects preserve not only their original purpose, but the emotions attached to them. This hand-painted floral Art Nouveau glove box dates to the Belle Époque era, a period when beautifully crafted domestic objects transformed everyday rituals into moments of elegance, and often functioned as souvenir gifts as well. Sourced in Valencia, this signed box was designed to store and protect gloves, with its original blue satin lining and gently sloped padded interior created to preserve the shape of delicate accessories.
The exterior is crafted from warm honey-toned fruitwood, with a simpler pine base beneath—an intentional construction choice that reflects the balance between craftsmanship and accessibility found in many souvenir and decorative objects of the period. The recessed front lock and hand-painted floral decoration add beauty and interest to an object created for gifting and personal use within the home.
The painted Forget-Me-Not flowers carry a particularly meaningful symbolism. In Victorian floriography, these small blue blossoms represented remembrance, enduring affection, and faithfulness, making them a fitting motif for an intimate keepsake object.
Signed "Salcé," a surname of Basque origin, this box preserves the work of an individual maker while offering a glimpse into the domestic life and sentimental objects of turn-of-the-century Europe.
Before beginning its next chapter, this glove box received careful stabilization. The loose wooden walls and corresponding sections of satin were gently secured using reversible hide glue, a traditional adhesive valued in conservation practices because it respects original materials and allows for future treatment if needed. The goal was not to erase the marks of age, but to ensure the box could continue to be appreciated and used.
Details
Artist/Maker: Signed "Salcé"
Origin: Valencia, Spain
Date: ca. 1895–1915
Period: Belle Époque / Art Nouveau
Materials: Fruitwood exterior, pine base, blue satin lining, painted decoration, recessed metal lock
Measurements: 9.5 x 4 x 2.75 inches
Care
This antique box has been gently cleaned and stabilized while preserving its original materials and aged character. Open and close carefully while supporting the body of the box. Avoid exposure to excessive humidity, direct sunlight, or harsh cleaning products.
Condition
This piece is in good antique condition with expected wear consistent with its age and use. The wooden structure has been stabilized, though minor age-related movement and surface variations remain visible. The original blue satin lining shows appropriate signs of age while retaining its beauty and character.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description.
Image 1 of 18
Image 2 of 18
Image 3 of 18
Image 4 of 18
Image 5 of 18
Image 6 of 18
Image 7 of 18
Image 8 of 18
Image 9 of 18
Image 10 of 18
Image 11 of 18
Image 12 of 18
Image 13 of 18
Image 14 of 18
Image 15 of 18
Image 16 of 18
Image 17 of 18
Image 18 of 18