Antique Sterling Silver Repoussé Floral Gilt Interior Keepsake Box
Sculptural Floral Silverwork with a Gold-Washed Interior
An intricately worked antique sterling silver keepsake box, likely dating to the early 20th century. Measuring approximately 2.7 inches in diameter, the circular hinged box is designed as a richly sculpted flower in full bloom.
The lid is deeply modeled with radiating, finely grooved petals surrounding a textured floral center. Applied leaves and botanical details add further dimension, while naturally darkened recesses emphasize the depth and definition of the silverwork.
The reverse is equally decorative, featuring another bold flower with layered petals, curling leaves, and a textured center. This fully ornamented construction allows the box to be appreciated from every angle.
Opening the lid reveals a richly textured gold-washed interior, creating an elegant contrast with the cool sterling silver exterior. The warm gilding adds a luxurious finish and highlights the hand-worked texture inside.
The inner rim is stamped STERLING 5023. The number is likely a pattern or model reference rather than a date mark.
Key Features
• Period: Antique, likely early 20th century
• Metal: Sterling silver
• Interior: Gold-washed or gilt
• Design: Deeply modeled floral and leaf decoration
• Construction: Circular hinged keepsake box
• Markings: Stamped STERLING 5023
• Measurements: Approximately 2.7 inches in diameter
• Function: Keepsake, jewelry, pill, or small vanity box
• Style: Sculptural botanical silverwork
• Condition: Very good antique condition
Design and Craftsmanship
The floral exterior is worked with pronounced ridges, folds, and finely chased lines that evoke the natural structure of flower petals. The raised surfaces retain a soft polish, while the oxidized recesses create contrast and bring greater definition to the botanical motifs.
Inside, the hammered or textured surface remains visible beneath the gold wash, suggesting that the box was designed to be admired both open and closed. The discreetly incorporated hinge preserves the rounded floral silhouette.
Condition
The box is in very good antique condition with surface scratches, oxidation, small marks, and age-related wear consistent with previous use.
The gold-washed interior displays natural variation, spotting, and areas of wear or thinning to the gilding. Minor dark marks and irregularities are visible within the textured interior.
The exterior retains strong floral detail, and the hinge remains intact. Please review the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition assessment.
Collector’s Note
Antique floral sterling silver boxes were created as luxurious personal accessories and decorative objects, often intended to hold jewelry, keepsakes, pills, or other small personal items.
This example is especially appealing for its dimensional botanical decoration, fully ornamented underside, contrasting gilt interior, and practical approximately 2.7-inch diameter. Whether displayed closed as a small work of silver sculpture or used to hold a cherished object, it offers both decorative beauty and function.
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• Authenticity — examined and verified before listing
• Condition — carefully inspected and honestly described
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How do I know a piece is authentic, and can I trust DSF?
Buying fine jewelry online takes trust, especially at this level. DSF Antique Jewelry is a New York–based dealer with over 50 years of fine jewelry expertise. Every piece is examined for authenticity and condition before it is listed — we assess hallmarks, maker's marks, metal content, gemstones, and construction consistent with the stated period or designer. For signed pieces such as Cartier, Buccellati, or Van Cleef & Arpels, we verify maker's marks and signatures. We're glad to send additional photographs of any hallmark, or speak with you directly, before you decide.
Why does antique gold look different, and is surface wear normal?
Antique pieces were often made in gold standards less common today, such as 15ct (used in Britain only between 1854 and 1932), 9ct, or higher-karat continental gold, which give a warmer tone than typical modern 14k. Light surface wear, softened edges, and a gentle patina are normal and expected on antique jewelry — they reflect the age and authenticity of the piece, not flaws. We describe the true condition of every item honestly in its listing.
What do the hallmarks and maker's marks mean?
Hallmarks are small stamped marks that identify the metal standard, and often the maker, assay office, and date. They are one of the best tools for authenticating antique jewelry. We identify and explain the marks we find on each piece in its description, and we're happy to send close-up photographs of any hallmark on request so you can see exactly what you're buying.
Can pieces be resized or adjusted?
It depends on the piece. Many antique rings can be resized, but bands with all-around engraving, thin shanks, or gemstones near the base may be limited in how far they can safely go, and some pieces are best left as-is to preserve their integrity. We list each item's measurements as they currently are. If you're unsure whether something can be safely adjusted, contact us before buying and we'll give you an honest assessment for that specific piece.
How should I care for and store fine jewelry?
Clean gently with a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and chlorine, and store pieces separately so they don't scratch one another. Remove rings and bracelets for heavy manual tasks. Antique gold is softer than modern alloys, so period pieces are best enjoyed with normal care. Treated well, fine antique jewelry lasts for generations — many of our pieces are already a century or more old and still beautiful.
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