Antique Artist’s Paint Box

Antique French “Peinture” Artist’s Box by N.K. Atlas Paris with Launay Ink Stamp, c. Early 20th Century

4" x 10.5" x 7.5"

French artist’s paint box of mixed construction -wood frame with reinforced board panels- covered in embossed “simili cuir” paper with a faux-alligator grain. The lid is stenciled in gilt with the word PEINTURE, framed by decorative neo-Gothic corner motifs. An oval gilt mark identifies the maker as N.K. Atlas Paris, a known producer of early 20th-century games, educational goods, and artist’s boxes.

The front clasp remains in place, and the interior reveals sliding trays with metal pulls that fold flat when not in use, allowing the flap to close securely. Red cords fixed inside suggest it once held panels or tools securely, while pigment stains and ink traces on the base attest to its working life in a painter’s studio.

Boxes of this type were widely used by French art students and professional painters in the early 20th century, when portable painting kits became increasingly popular in response to plein-air practice and academic training. While N.K. Atlas Paris produced a variety of cartonnage goods, examples of paint boxes like this are rarely found today, especially complete with trays and dual markings from both maker and retailer. Its bold stenciling, embossed covering, and strong provenance set it apart as an especially collectible survivor of the Parisian art-supply trade.

Styled closed, it reads as a striking decorative box; styled open, it reveals its compartments and history, making it a conversation piece in a study, library, or artistically inspired vignette. This is a one-of-a-kind character piece — you will not come across another quite like it.

Condition is consistent with age and use: craquelure to the coated finish, edge wear, and stains inside. The original fabric hinge attaching the front flap to the base has been reinforced with archival adhesive for stability.