Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An antique footed metal trinket box manufactured by Apollo Studios featuring a detailed relief scene of figures in 18th-century courtly attire playing a table game. The casket sits on four acanthus-leaf feet and retains its original bright red velvet lining.
Story
New York metalsmiths in the 1910s crafted these romanticized trinket boxes to bring European palace luxury into modern American dressing rooms. The lid scene captures an idealized courtly salon game, capturing Edwardian nostalgia for 18th-century elegance.
Maker / Origin
Apollo Studios was a renowned New York maker operating as a line of Bernard Rice's Sons in the early 20th century. Famous for producing elaborate gilt metal trinket boxes, vanity sets, and desk accessories, they specialized in French Romantic and Art Nouveau revival styles.
Condition & Value
The box shows light surface patina and finish rubbing consistent with age. Tape has been placed around the body and lid to keep it closed; removing it carefully is key to avoid lifting any remaining gilt finish. The red lining is well preserved. Value is driven by maker brand recognition, relief detail quality, and overall condition.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.