Description: A beautiful small hand painted porcelain trinket box from Limoges France. The box, which is in the shape of a backpack, has hinged lid on the front, with the hinge equipped with a flattened center to serve as a stopper for the box's lid when opened. The entire box has a colorful world map painted on it showing Africa, Europe, Asia, North and South America and Australia in caricature form with the names of some of the countries spelled out. The backpack has a brown colored border with the map having various colored countries. These include green, various shades of brown, and yellow. There is a loop on top of the backpack. The box lid is the front pocket of the backpack and both top and bottom of the lid are fitted with brass rectangles having a hinge on the back and a locking thumb piece attached to the front of the top portion. The bottom of the backpack is not colored, is unglazed, and is white with indication as to the origin and maker of the box written in beautiful black cursive calligraphy on the white background. The inside of the box is white and undecorated. This is a very nice piece from Limoges France to add to your collection of small trinket boxes. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.

Date: Uncertain, but most likely sometime in the 1970s or 1980s, possibly earlier.  

Origin: Made in Limoges, France.

Size: The box is ~2 1/2" by ~2 1/2" by ~1 1/4". This box weighs about 2 ounces. 

Maker: Rochard of Limoges France. 

Marks: Marked on the bottom of the piece in beautiful black cursive calligraphy "Rochard, Limoges France; Hand Painted".  

Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful vintage piece which would make a great addition to any collection or can be used as a great gift.  

Condition: The box is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, repairs or crazing. The box is clean and the lid closes well and tightly. The surface of the piece has some minor scratches and a few spots of color loss, but these are minimal and truly a none issue. A great piece to add to your collection. Please see photos for additional condition information and to appreciate the beauty of this box.