Lot 391: French Napoleonic Style Red Toleware Bicorne Hat Box

A lidded metal bicorne hat box, or boite a chapeau, constructed from sheet metal with a vibrant red painted finish and gilded rolled edges. The container is shaped specifically to accommodate a military bicorne hat, featuring a curved, peaked profile. It is equipped with a central brass swing handle at the top. The piece is constructed in two hinged halves, opening at the base and secured at the top by a metal hasp and clasp. A decorative black painted cartouche is located on the front face; the reserve remains blank and contains no readable inscriptions or names. The interior surfaces are unpainted, revealing a dark patinated metal. No maker marks, stamps, or labels are present on the exterior or interior.