Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A refined French Belle Époque trinket box in gilded bronze, featuring a neoclassical relief of Venus and Cupid on the lid. The interior is meticulously preserved with its original padded floral brocade lining, a hallmark of high-end Parisian vanity accessories from the turn of the century.
Story
Born in Paris in 1855, Jules Prosper Legastelois was a celebrated medalist whose work earned a bronze medal at the 1900 World’s Fair. This box likely sat on a lady's dressing table, holding a single precious ring or a lock of hair.
Maker / Origin
Legastelois was a distinguished French sculptor and medalist, a student of the legendary Oscar Roty. He was awarded the Legion of Honour in 1908 and is best known for his commemorative medals and fine bronze mounts for luxury houses like Baccarat.
Condition & Value
The exterior shows a beautiful, authentic patina with minor wear to the gilding on high points, which is expected and desirable. The interior brocade is in remarkable condition for its age, appearing free of major staining or fraying. Excellent condition for a functional antique.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.