Antique French Silver box hp miniature painting portrait of Cat (2555)

Sterling silver (actually 950) lidded box with a handpainted portrait of a ginger tabby cat  on the lid.

Made in France, 19th century.

2 inches high, 4 1/2inches in diameter.

Round box with fine raised foliage bands around the borders of the lower section Concave steps towards the lid and thumbpiece, continued to the top of the lid, with a gadrooned border, to a central plateau containing a wonderful painting of a ginger tabby cat.

Huge golden eyes, long white whiskers - fabulous thick coat in a myriad of orange and gold shades.

The cat's face is caught perfectly.
Fabulous detail.
Hinged lid. 
Inside box is gilded.

Silver hallmarks under box, inside box and on side of lid. Male facing left as used for 
950 standard from 1879. 
Maker initials J.M.

Very good condition.