Circular lithographed tin box decorated with a red bee on an ochre background, emblematic of early 20th-century patent leather care and polishing products. Bilingual inscription "Patent Leather, Box Calf, etc. – Paris New York," typical of Franco-American luxury brands. The reverse side, in bright red, displays instructions for use in French and English, highlighting the product's dual distribution. The metal lever closure system is preserved.
✦ Origin: France / United States ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900–1915 ✦ Dimensions: 9 × 3 cm ✦ Material: Polychrome lithographed sheet metal ✦ Condition: Good overall condition with signs of wear and slight, even oxidation; colors still vibrant; functional closure
Transatlantic shoe polish advertisement with rare iconography – a prized display piece for collectors of antique cleaning products.
