Jewellery boxes, often seen as mere storage units, hold a rich history that mirrors the evolution of human civilization, societal norms, and artistic preferences. This article delves into the fascinating journey of these boxes, from their inception in ancient Egypt to their modern-day incarnations.
The Dawn of Jewellery Boxes in Ancient Egypt
The earliest known use of jewellery boxes can be traced back to around 5000 BC in Ancient Egypt. These boxes, used by both genders, were considered essential due to the spiritual significance of jewellery. Egyptians believed that certain types of jewellery would aid them in the afterlife, making these boxes a necessity for storing such precious items.
The 16th Century: A Royal Affair
During the 16th century, jewellery boxes were a symbol of luxury and opulence. Royals, like Henry Tudor, commissioned artisans to create these boxes from materials like silver, gold, and ivory. These boxes were not only aesthetically pleasing but also served the practical function of protecting the jewellery from dirt and grime.
The 18th Century: The Rise of Trinket Boxes
The 18th century saw the rise of trinket boxes, smaller versions of jewellery boxes, often decorated with delicate motifs. These boxes were made from a variety of materials, including gold, iron, wood, stone, porcelain, and paper-mâché. The late 18th century also saw the reemergence of musical jewellery boxes, which played melodious sounds when opened.
The Industrial Revolution: Democratizing Jewellery Boxes
The Industrial Revolution democratized the ownership of jewellery boxes. With advancements in technology and manufacturing, these boxes, once exclusive to the royals and aristocrats, became accessible to the middle class. The size of the boxes also became smaller to accommodate more middle-class families.
Art Nouveau and 20th Century: A Return to Nature
The Art Nouveau movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries had a significant impact on the design of jewellery boxes. The boxes were painted with natural themes and floral motifs, symbolizing a return to nature and a shift towards a more feminine aesthetic.
21st Century: Pushing the Boundaries
In the 21st century, luxury goods makers have pushed the boundaries of jewellery box craftsmanship. For instance, the luxury goods company Mouwad introduced a jewellery box crafted using 18k gold and sterling silver, decorated with thousands of carats of white and yellow diamonds.
Despite the evolution and changes in design and purpose, the essence of the jewellery box as a keeper of precious items remains. Today, they are not just storage units but also pieces of art and history, reflecting the cultural and societal changes over the centuries.
