Antique pen nib box "Patriotic Pens" - Circa 1900

An elegant metal pen nibs box adorned with an allegory of the French Republic, draped and seated between two tricolor flags. The label mentions the Grand Prix of the 1900 Paris Universal Exposition , highlighting the industrial pride and national excellence of French stationery at the time. Typical of the patriotic style of the Belle Époque, the box combines gold, blue, and red with remarkable typographic refinement. The purplish-red interior adds a touch of rare contrast. The box is empty but complete.

✦ Origin: France (Boulogne-sur-Mer)
✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900
✦ Dimensions: 6.8 × 4.5 × 2 cm
✦ Material: Lithographed cardboard
✦ Contents: Empty box
✦ Condition: Good overall condition, bright colors, some rubbing on the edges, slightly dusty interior

An iconic illustration of French industrial pride at the dawn of the 20th century – a small visual manifesto of the Belle Époque, ideal for a display case dedicated to patriotic stationery.