Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic powder-blue cantilevered jewelry chest featuring a gold-stamped filigree design and a tiered interior. This style of box became an icon of the mid-century vanity, designed to display a woman's growing collection of costume jewelry.
Story
Post-war prosperity in the 1950s and 60s led to an explosion of affordable costume jewelry. Mele designed these 'automatic' boxes so a woman could see her entire collection at once with a single lift of the lid.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1912 by Emidio Mele, the company began by making displays for Tiffany & Co. before becoming the most recognizable name in American jewelry storage, often utilizing Italian craftsmanship for their more intricate designs.
Condition & Value
The exterior shows significant scuffing on the corners and some staining on the faux leather. The bottom felt/paper is largely missing, and the interior lining shows typical age-related discoloration. These factors reduce the value by about 50% compared to a mint specimen. Value is driven by the nostalgic appeal of the Mele brand.
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.