From 1921-1931, the Ebena factory in Belgium capitalised on the material of the moment, Bakelite. However, Ebena produced works of art that emphasised the concept of innovation that was synonymous with the revolutionary material.
Jugendstil, the artistic movement that ran through Europe (notably Germany and Austria) gave birth to colourful and stylish decor, as playfully embodied by this lidded box. The process of ‘Galiath’, whereby the 'Bakelite' material (this rare example comprising of wood fibre and fossilised tree resin - also known as copal) is pressed into moulds with gold and silver leaf which gives a glimmering appearance. The array of colours is intoxicating and almost seems out of place considering the piece was produced a century ago.
The whimsey and playfulness carry on in the form of the finial or handle to the lid element of the box. Two moulded faces, content and full of joy blend into each other atop the lid. The attention to detail is second to none, even more so when considering the miniature scale of the lid. The colours of the piece echo that of an exposed cliff face with a variety of sediment to depict the multitude of elements combined.
This lidded box is in excellent vintage condition, bearing only two minuscule chips to the rim where it meets the lid (pictured)
