Antique French Travel Necessaire

An exciting find at market in France this spring, this stunning Necessaire with its Antique Travel Glass Bottle Set is resplendent with Victorian details. Opening the stunning and richly textured burlwood travel box reveals precious cargo: a trio of darling glass bottles.

Part of a long and fashionable history, intricate and exquisite bespoke travel cases have deep origins dating back to the late 14th century. The French Nécessaire de Voyage or Travelling Case evolved over the centuries from a set of purely useful travel necessities into decorative and valuable coffrets of luxury accessories produced by expert Ébénistes (cabinetmakers) and Orfèvres (goldsmiths/ silversmiths). Until the late 18th century, these exquisite vessels were most often the property of royalty, noblemen and holders of wealth. One of the earliest 19th-century symbols of travel status and caché, gentleman’s dressing cases would contain bottles and jars for colognes, aftershaves and creams as well as utilitarian shaving and manicure tools.

As travel became more widely accessible, its popularity spurred more specialized case variations for toiletries, eating and drinking, sewing, and writing, along with tools and conveniences for a wide range of vocations and pursuits. By the early Victorian era, ladies also began to travel and their requirements were anything but utilitarian! Case in point, this lovely trio of crystal clear bottles nestled smartly in an exquisite box, each topped by a faceted finial. With applied pearlescent and stud detailing to the elegantly curved lid, this magnificent set is still accompanied by its original key. Designed for use as part of a portable dressing set, these cube-shaped glass vessels would have held an assortment of the traveler's preferred scents and potions. 

With a graceful elegance that promises to infuse your dressing table or vanity with the adventurous spirit of the Golden Age of Travel, this magnificent box with its resplendent patina makes a stunning impression in any setting. Ready to embark upon new voyages to distant horizons, it is sure to become a vibrant and stored addition to your collection.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition. Box measures 5"H x 7"W x 3"D.