French Antique Jewellery Box in Rosewood Belonging to the Duke of Magenta

This antique jewellery box was given to Patrice Maurice de MacMahon (1808-1893), most likely by Napoleon III, to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Magenta on the 4th June 1859; that same evening MacMahon was declared the Duke of Magenta by Charles-Louis Napoléon Bonaparte. The next day this title was made official by royal decree, and MacMahon became a Marshal of France.

This box is inset with a brass plate that bears the engraved proclamation, 'MacMahon - Duc de Magenta - 5 Juin 1859' surrounding a ducal coronet.

The life and successes of Patrice Maurice de MacMahon are very well documented; he went on to become the Governor General of Algeria in 1864, the head of the army of the French Third Republic in 1871, and elected the President of the French Third Republic from 1873-1879.

Veneered in Rosewood with radial brass edging, brass strung inlay, and recessed brass side handles, this box was manufactured by Louis Aucoc in 1859.

The compartmented interior, housing a removable leather-bound jewellery tray, is lined with green velvet and matching moiré silk.

A removable Mahogany framed easel mirror is fitted to the underside of the lid.

The full width lock plate is engraved with, 'Aucoc Ainé à Paris'.

The double action Bramah patent lock comes with its original key. ... Read More