A fine Dutch silver bonbonière, Carel J. Begeer, Amsterdam, 1906, designed by Jan Eisenloeffel

circular, the cover centrally decorated with a green and blue geometric enamel band, angular handles, beaded borders, fully marked at the base (2)

Overall in good condition. The blue enamel with a small chip. Very small scratches of use. Clearly marked. No repairs.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Jan Eisenloeffel (1876-1957) was born in Amsterdam, where he studied drawing at the Rijksnormaalschool. After his graduation in 1896, he joined the company Hoeker & Zoon in Amsterdam, where he was taught silversmithing. In 1898 he went to St. Petersburg and to Moscow where he specialised in niello and enamel techniques. It was also here that he met with the unusual shapes and ornaments we find so typical of his work.

In 1900 Wilhelm C. Hoeker founded a co-operative firm for interior design, called 't Binnenhuis, together with H.P. Berlage and Jac. van den Bosch. They wanted to create well designed and affordable utensils. They also wanted to create a saleroom for artists from Amsterdam. Eisenloeffel was one of the artists who was asked to join the company. It was here that he sold his designs for three years. In 1903 he left 't Binnenhuis and became one of the founders of De Woning. During this period Eisenloeffel designed many pieces of silverware. Some of his designs were executed by Carel J. Begeer, including the bonbonière offered here.

Literature:
A. Krekel-Aalberse, Emke Raassen-Kruimel, Jan Eisenloeffel 1876-1957, Zwolle 1996, p.15.
A. Krekel-Aalberse, Modern Zilver 1880-1940, Amsterdam 1989, p.176-77.