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This shagreen box, made in the 1930s, is a fine example of the taste for refined materials that characterized Art Deco, and is fully in keeping with the aesthetic dear to Clément Rousseau. At the time, shagreen was in vogue, particularly for luxury leather goods and goldsmiths. Appreciated for its unique texture, it offers a slightly grainy feel due to the small natural pearls of which it is composed, and a subtly shiny finish that catches the light with elegance. Its exceptional strength and suppleness make it the material of choice for precious objects, providing both aesthetic appeal and durability.
Attributed to Clément Rousseau, this box illustrates an approach where the combination of noble materials and attention to detail combine to create pieces that are both sober and luxurious. On the lid, a silver monogram signals a sense of belonging, probably to a particular family or house. Its pure, geometric design reflects the spirit of Art Deco, where elegance lies in the simplicity of form and the quality of finish.
It opens with a delicately integrated brass catch, contrasting subtly with the texture of the shagreen. The whole set is in perfect condition, proof of the care taken in its manufacture and preservation.
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