August Klein

AUGUST KLEIN (Vienna, 19th century).
Case.
Wooden core with details in bronze, silver and enamel.
Measurements: 18 x 48 x 38,5 cm.

Nineteenth-century boxes such as the one we now present are an eloquent testimony to the refined taste of the bourgeoisie of the time and also represent an outstanding example of the work of August Klein, a Viennese goldsmith famous for his luxurious boxes and cases of fine leatherwork and goldsmithing. Our specimen stands on four baroque scrolled legs and features a rococo-inspired lock. The lid is ornamented with an exquisite monogrammed enameled medallion, framed by delicate silver filigree and polychrome enamels, accompanied by tondos containing typically Viennese watercolors. Enamels with foliate and floral motifs enrich the ensemble. In short, the piece is fully in keeping with the historicist taste of the time, combining neo-rococo and neo-baroque elements characteristic of 19th century Viennese objects.