This box features a fine example of filigree work executed entirely of silver. It comprises a body of various elements in the form of leafy and floral vines. The filigree work is done by bending and soldering plaited silver wires together to create an intricate open-work mesh. Filigree work is a delicate process that involves the drawing out of metal such as silver or gold into fine threads that can be rolled, bent or braided into intricate openwork designs. This box may have been used to store valuables such as money and jewellery. The expansion of trade and industry led to a growing interest in precious and beautiful objects which were the exclusive property of the wealthy aristocracy. This, in turn, encouraged craftsmen to show greater creativity, which resulted in the creation of objects with different shapes and sizes, bearing richer design and decorative themes.
