Vtg 1975 Handmade In Romania Marquetry lacquered Inlay Wooden Box Inside Key For Locking Box Original Paperwork
We spent a month in Romania the summer of 1975. It was the first year Romania was opened to the West for tourism. We traveled to Constanta on the Black Sea and slowly made our way up to Bucharest. We stayed at the Athenee Palace in Bucharest which is now the Athenee Palace Hilton.
Amongst the many items we brought home from this trip, two amazing marquetry lacquered inlaid boxes are our most favorite. Each box is listed separately in our Etsy Shop.
Fantastic, intricate inlaid work and craftsmanship. This box is a magnificent example of Romanian folk art.
Please look closely at the patterns and the colors of the wood. We believe the wood to be mahogany. The wood working goes all the way around the box. Inside the box the wood working continues. The hinges are brass. This box locks with a brass turn key. It is lined on the inside with beautiful handmade Romanian floral design fabric in chartreuse.
The box is in near excellent condition. On the base there are four triangular "feet" that are nailed into the box for lift. The box weighs 2.4 lbs.
The original paper label is included with the box. I tried to research the Romanian words to no avail. It does indicate someone (perhaps the artist's name) or place of origin. It was 21 lei and is dated 1975.
This box is truly a work of fine Romanian folk art. The quality is remarkable. This is a one of a kind piece. Museum quality.
Please see the photos to complete the description.
