Antique Napoleon III Bread Basket — Chinoiserie Black Lacquer Papier-Mâché, French, 19th Century

This beautiful Napoleon III bread basket, with its matching brush, is crafted in black lacquered papier-mâché and decorated with gilt chinoiserie motifs.

Typical of mid-19th-century French decorative arts, the piece reflects the era’s fascination with exotic motifs interpreted through European craftsmanship.

The oval form, with softly scalloped edges and gilt trim, frames a finely detailed Asian-inspired scene, where figures and landscape unfold in gold against a deep black ground.
The contrast between lacquer and gilding gives the piece a strong visual presence, balancing ornament and form.

Originally intended as a functional object, it now reads as a decorative piece — suitable for a console, table, or as part of a layered composition.

Dimensions
34,5 x 26 x 5,5cm

Condition
Very good antique condition with well-preserved colour and light wear to the gilt consistent with age. Please refer to photos for details.