Overview
An elegant rectangular jewellery box made in Italy circa 1970s, combining dark smoked Lucite with a natural cork inset. Its clean architectural construction and refined contrast between glossy transparency and organic texture make it a distinctive example of Italian decorative design from the period.
 
Description
This decorative box pairs the deep, translucent character of smoked Lucite with the warm and tactile surface of natural cork.
The rectangular body is defined by a low, geometric profile, with a slightly projecting base and removable lid that create a layered architectural composition. The dark Lucite appears almost black in subdued light, while its edges reveal warm amber and burgundy reflections when illuminated.
The lid is centred by a large rectangular cork panel, whose pale golden colouring and naturally irregular markings provide a striking contrast with the smooth, polished surrounding frame. The interior continues the dark monochromatic finish, creating a discreet space for jewellery, keepsakes and small personal objects.
Compact yet visually distinctive, the box works equally well as a functional storage piece or as a decorative object displayed on a desk, dressing table, console or coffee table.
 
Design & Function
Designed as a small storage or jewellery box, the piece features a fully removable rectangular lid resting over a deep central compartment.
The projecting upper and lower planes give the object a balanced, almost floating appearance, while the clean rectangular proportions emphasise its modern character. The absence of hinges or visible hardware preserves the clarity of the form and allows the lid to be removed completely for easy access.
Its generous interior can accommodate jewellery, watches, small accessories or personal keepsakes.
 
Materials & Aesthetic
The box is crafted from dark smoked Lucite, appreciated for its glossy surface, visual depth and subtle transparency. Depending on the light, the material shifts from deep brown-black to warm amber and reddish tones along the edges.
The central cork panel introduces an organic, tactile quality. Its pale honey colouring, linear grain and naturally varied markings create a graphic surface that contrasts beautifully with the smooth Lucite.
This pairing of synthetic and natural materials reflects the experimental spirit of 1970s decorative design, when modern plastics were frequently combined with cork, leather and other tactile finishes to create objects that felt both contemporary and luxurious.
 
Technical Details
Product: Italian Smoked Lucite and Cork Jewellery Box, circa 1970s
Designer: Italian Manufacture
Manufacturer: Italian Manufacture
Country of Manufacture: Italy
Period: Circa 1970s
Materials: Smoked Lucite; natural cork
Dimensions: Height 5,5cm | Width 16cm | Depth 12,5cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. The Lucite presents light scratches, surface marks, minor abrasions and wear along the edges consistent with age and previous use. The cork inset shows natural tonal variations, grain irregularities and minor signs of age intrinsic to the material. The interior may present light marks consistent with its original function. We kindly invite you to examine the photographs carefully and take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Functionality: Removable-lid jewellery and decorative storage box
 
Collectibility
Vintage objects combining Lucite with natural materials are increasingly appreciated for their bold material contrasts and unmistakable 1970s aesthetic.
This box is particularly attractive for the tension between the dark, glossy transparency of the Lucite and the warm graphic texture of the cork. Its restrained form makes it versatile, while the unusual material combination gives it a strong decorative identity.
A refined collectible accessory, it can complement modern, mid-century and contemporary interiors alike.
 
Designer & Manufacturer
Produced by an unidentified Italian manufacturer circa 1970s, this box reflects the period’s fascination with modern synthetic materials and geometric domestic accessories.
Lucite allowed designers to explore transparency, colour and visual weight in new ways, while cork introduced warmth and natural texture. In this piece, the two materials are brought together within a precise rectangular structure, transforming a practical storage object into a sophisticated decorative composition.