Antique Souvenir Box – Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc

Antique French Lourdes Religious Box – G. Coulet, Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc
c. 1900–1920
2.5" x 2.5" x 1"

A small square souvenir box from Lourdes, sold by G. Coulet at the Magasin de l’Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc. Likely used to house a rosary, medal, or other religious keepsake, the box is made of lightweight cardboard with a soft cream interior lining. The lid retains its original printed label featuring Joan of Arc holding her banner and advertising objets religieux and bijouterie en or & argent garantis (religious items and guaranteed gold and silver jewelry). A faint blue wash is visible beneath the label on the lid, trimming the sticker.

G. Coulet was a Lourdes-based merchant who sold religious objects and jewelry, likely from a boutique located within or next to the Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc—one of many hotels that catered to the city's booming pilgrimage trade in the early 20th century. Shops like his provided rosaries, medals, and devotional gifts to visitors seeking souvenirs of their spiritual journey.

The typography and packaging style are consistent with early 20th-century religious merchandise from pilgrimage sites in France. A charming example of devotional packaging and a lovely addition to a religious or ephemera collection.