The Fontana house is one of the most prestigious names in 19th-century Parisian jewelry. Founded in 1840 by Thomas Fontana at the Palais-Royal, the brand became Ch. Fontana & Cie in 1871. This box, marked "Fontana Frères" and mentioning the address of 7 rue de la Paix as well as a branch in Nice, reflects the expansion of the house after its departure from the Palais-Royal in 1896. Famous for its exceptional tiaras and jewelry sets, the Fontana house supplied the greatest courts of Europe before its archives were ultimately integrated into those of the Chaumet house. This former jewelry box from the famous Fontana Frères house, successors to the Palais-Royal house, is a large-sized case from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing the prestigious addresses of 7 rue de la Paix in Paris and 46 avenue Masséna in Nice. The exterior is made of rich burgundy leather lavishly decorated with a frieze of golden Greek patterns around the edge and stamped with the initials H.F. on the top. The interior features original silk and beige velvet lining, ideal for a showcase-type accessory. Its dimensions are approximately 11 cm long, about 6.7 cm wide, and about 2.8 cm high. Overall, it is in good condition with slightly creased original leather and very light signs of use, and the closure system works perfectly. Authenticity: Original Weight: 19.58g Height: 2.8cm Material: Leather/Silk/Velvet Length: 11cm Width: 6.7cm Type: Showcase Item, Decorative Brand: Ch. Fontana Origin: France Country of Origin: France Subtype: Jewelry Style: Napoleon III