Guilloche Enamel Match Safe
late 19th century
Classification
containers
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Stephen W. Brener and Carol B. Brener
Accession Number
1978-146-482
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the opulent world of imperial luxury with this *Guilloche Enamel Safe* from the House of Fabergé, crafted in the late 19th century. in 1842 by Gustav Fabergé and elevated to legendary status under his son Peter Carl, the firm became synonymous with exquisite objets d'art for Russia's Romanov dynasty and European aristocracy. This petite container, designed to safely hold matches—a practical necessity in the gaslit era—was transformed into a jewel-like treasure, exemplifying Fabergé's mastery of blending functionality with unparalleled elegance. The standout feature is its guilloché ...